Hannah Waddingham shows off her incredible figure in a striking Women’s Health shoot as she recalls being typecast as ‘a tall, bigger woman’ and reflects on life as a single mother

Hannah Waddingham has shared that her role in Ted Lasso has been a pivotal moment in her career, offering not just recognition but a break from typecasting.

The 51-year-old actress, who has portrayed Rebecca in the hit Apple TV series for six years, reflects on how the show has helped redefine how she is perceived in the industry. Ted Lasso, which is entering its fourth season this summer, provided Waddingham the chance to step away from roles often defined by her height and size. Winning an Emmy for her performance, Waddingham now describes herself as someone with the same vulnerabilities and insecurities as anyone else.

In an exclusive cover shoot for Women’s Health UK, Waddingham emphasized how Ted Lasso allowed her to be seen differently: “It was a turning point, not just for my career, but in how I’m perceived, as someone who’s much more than just a tall woman.” She also noted that the role provided financial stability and independence, particularly as a single mother to her daughter, Kitty, who has faced her own health challenges.

Hannah previously revealed how the role came into her life at a time of personal hardship. As a single mother, she had experienced the challenge of balancing her career with raising a child, especially when her daughter, then just three years old, was diagnosed with an auto-immune disorder. During this difficult period, she “manifested” the role of Rebecca, asking the universe for a role that would not only push her professionally but also keep her close to home and Kitty.

Two months later, she had her first meeting for the role, which would be filmed just half an hour from her home in London.

Reflecting on her journey as a single mother, Waddingham said, “I found in myself a strength. I thought, ‘No, I’m not going to sit in the corner and think, oh, poor me. I have so much to give.’” She continued, “It’s not the same as two parents; I’m the sole provider, and that’s something people often forget.”

As the new season of Ted Lasso drops on August 5, Waddingham is hopeful that the strong female characters in the upcoming episodes will resonate just as deeply with audiences. She expressed, “The women in this season deserve people to lean in,” referring to the powerful characters that continue to define the show’s heart.

With the return of familiar characters like Roy Kent (Brett Goldstein), Keely (Juno Temple), and Coach Beard (Brendan Hunt), Ted Lasso promises an exciting season ahead. Waddingham is optimistic about the future of the show, particularly with a planned three-season arc centered around the introduction of a women’s football team.

As she concludes, Waddingham credits the new generation of female actors for their fresh and impactful presence: “They’ve got it and then some.”

Fans can catch the new season when it premieres on August 5.