Welcome to this week’s installment of Geek Girl Authority Crush of the Week, wherein we shine a spotlight on strong women who inspire us. Now, this not only includes fictional female characters in geeky media but creators as well. These ladies are a prime example of female empowerment and how crucial it is for youth to have said example to follow.
DISCLAIMER: The following contains spoilers for Apple TV Plus’s Ted Lasso.
Keeley Jones
Fast Facts:
Juno Temple in “Ted Lasso” season two, now streaming on Apple TV+.
Keeley Jones (Juno Temple) is a model and social media influencer who eventually joins the AFC Richmond pro football club as a branding consultant.
When we first meet her in Ted Lasso‘s freshman season, Keeley is dating AFC’s star player, Jamie Tartt (Phil Dunster). She instantly bonds with Ted Lasso (Jason Sudeikis) when he starts his new gig as the team’s coach (or “gaffer,” if you’re into UK slang). AFC Richmond’s new owner, Rebecca Welton (Hannah Waddingham), attempts to manipulate Keeley and Ted’s friendship in a bid to disgrace the club.
However, the ploy doesn’t pan out. Keeley eventually forms a close friendship with Rebecca, and the latter apologizes for her behavior.
After breaking up with Jamie, Keeley begins dating Roy Kent (Brett Goldstein), the curmudgeonly (but endearing) captain of AFC. Keeley also develops an adorable rapport with Roy’s niece, Phoebe (Elodie Blomfield). Roy retires by the end of Season One.
In Season Two, Keeley encourages Roy to become a pundit for Sky Sports, but Roy’s love for the game wins out, and he returns to AFC Richmond as a coach.
Meanwhile, Keeley promotes a dating app called “Bantr,” which doesn’t allow prospective daters to upload photos of themselves. She helps Rebecca navigate the rough waters of finding a partner.
The Real Deal:
Juno Temple and Brett Goldstein in “Ted Lasso,” now streaming on Apple TV+.
Keeley is a beacon of boundless positivity and a bastion of the can-do spirit. She’s a bright spot in a world that’s pervasive with seemingly unrelenting negativity. That’s not to say she doesn’t possess depths or never has a bad day, but the way she embraces obstacles is inspiring.
Keeley is friendly, effervescent and empathetic. She cares deeply about the people around her. Keeley wholly embodies the “be kind, but take no sh*t” mantra. Yes, she gives a lot of herself; however, she also knows when to draw a line in the sand and stand up for herself.
Her friendship with Rebecca is so refreshing. Instead of resorting to manipulation or belittling Rebecca (how platonic female relationships are commonly portrayed in media), Keeley supports her friend. In addition, her relationship with Roy is healthy, with established boundaries.
Keeley sees the best in people and always strives to elevate her loved ones.
Why She Matters:
Juno Temple in “Ted Lasso” season two, now streaming on Apple TV+.
Keeley Jones is a rarity on TV these days. Brooding, convoluted antiheroes are all the rage. Not that I don’t enjoy those character archetypes. Their strength is their snarky quips and brash attitude.
However, Keeley’s strength lies in her kindness. Her vivacious spirit. She’s proof positive that women can be strong in a myriad of ways. You can be benevolent while still setting boundaries and defending yourself when it’s needed. Keeley’s joy is contagious.
So, be like Keeley Jones. Love with everything you have. Be the badass girl boss that innately dwells inside of you. Support your friends. Unabashedly wear all the pink. Be kind, but take no sh*t. In a world where you can be anything, be a Keeley.
RELATED: 5 TV Shows That Shine a Spotlight on Mental Health
International Women’s Day: 10 Inspiring Female Characters
Melody.McCune@geekgirlauthority.com
What I do: I'm GGA's Managing Editor, a Senior Contributor, and Press Coordinator. I manage, contribute, and coordinate. Sometimes all at once. Joking aside, I oversee day-to-day operations for GGA, write, edit, and assess interview opportunities/press events.
Who I am: Before moving to Los Angeles after studying theater in college, I was born and raised in Amish country, Ohio. No, I am not Amish, even if I sometimes sport a modest bonnet.
Bylines in: Tell-Tale TV, Culturess, Sideshow Collectibles, and inkMend on Medium.
Critic: Rotten Tomatoes, CherryPicks, and the Hollywood Creative Alliance.
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