Jamie Tartt Was Originally Meant To Be Played By Another Ted Lasso Actor

Everyone loved Phil Dunster as Jamie Tartt, who sadly exited 'Ted Lasso' ahead of Season 4. It's hard to imagine anyone else as AFC Richmond's star player, but it turns out this character was originally supposed to have a South American flair.

Fernandez made a good impression during his initial audition, but Dunster had also tried out for the show and Park loved him so much that she pushed for the team's arrogant star to be British instead. 'Nobody was quite as funny as Phil Dunster just playing a Brit, and then in that search for the South American, we found this fantastic, exuberant, puppy dog, gorgeous ex-pro Mexican footballer Cristo Fernandez,' she informed Below the Line.

For related coverage, explore our detailed analysis on Technology and Digital Systems.

Context and Historical Background

Theo Park was right to push for Phil Dunster to play the Jamie Tartt role in 'Ted Lasso,' as that's what led to creation of Dani Rojas, a character far more suited to Cristo Fernandez. With his bright smile, happy-go-lucky demeanor, and frequent laugh-out-loud moments, Fernandez's Dani quickly endeared himself to 'Ted Lasso' viewers.

Fernandez is now playing for El Paso Locomotive FC in the USL Championship, the second tier of professional soccer in the United States. 'I just know that this dream of coming back and playing professional soccer again is crazy, but I've been working hard for this,' he informed Goal.

Read More: Mads Mikkelsen Talks Balance Between Commitment and Collaboration

Signing for the team was a full circle moment for Fernandez, who has always been in love with the game.

In the early stages of 'Ted Lasso,' there were plans to cast an actor from South America as Jamie Tartt. The role ultimately went to Phil Dunster instead, but this decision led to a change in character development for both roles.

Future Impact and Next Steps

Theo Park, the show's casting director, revealed that she initially liked Dunster more than Fernandez during their auditions. However, after seeing Fernandez's performance, she realized that he was better suited for the part of Dani Rojas.

Fernandez's casting in 'Ted Lasso' marked a significant turning point in his career. The show's success helped him relaunch his soccer career in the United States, where he is now playing for El Paso Locomotive FC.

Fernandez is grateful for the opportunity to play professional soccer again and is determined to make the most of it. 'I just know that this dream of coming back and playing professional soccer again is crazy, but I've been working hard for this,' he informed Goal.