Ted Lasso co-creator brings pre-Broadway show to Chicago

Brendan Hunt, who plays Coach Beard on the hit Apple TV series, will stage a solo show at Steppenwolf Theatre.

Jan. 27, 2026 at 5:23pm

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Brendan Hunt, the Chicago-based improvisor who co-created the hit Apple TV series "Ted Lasso" and plays the character of Coach Beard, will stage a solo show at Steppenwolf Theatre in Chicago as a precursor to a potential Broadway run.

Why it matters

The success of "Ted Lasso" has made Hunt a rising star, and his decision to debut a new solo show in Chicago before potentially taking it to Broadway reflects the city's continued importance as an incubator for theatrical talent and productions.

The details

Hunt's solo show at Steppenwolf Theatre will serve as a pre-Broadway tryout, allowing him to refine the production before potentially bringing it to a larger audience on the Great White Way. The show is expected to feature Hunt's improvisational skills and explore themes from his work on "Ted Lasso".

  • The show will run at Steppenwolf Theatre in Chicago in January 2026.

The players

Brendan Hunt

The Chicago-based improvisor who co-created the hit Apple TV series "Ted Lasso" and plays the character of Coach Beard.

Steppenwolf Theatre

A renowned theater in Chicago that has served as an incubator for theatrical talent and productions.

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What they’re saying

“Bringing my solo show to Steppenwolf is a dream come true. Chicago has always been a special place for me, and I'm excited to share this new work with the city that helped shape me as an artist.”

— Brendan Hunt (The Brunswick News)

What’s next

If the Steppenwolf run is successful, Hunt may take the solo show to Broadway for a limited engagement.

The takeaway

Brendan Hunt's decision to debut his new solo show in Chicago before potentially bringing it to Broadway underscores the city's continued importance as a hub for theatrical innovation and talent development.