As we journey through childhood, we all have that one particular treasure we hold dear. Be it a worn-out blanket in dire need of cleaning, a beloved doll that has seen better days, or perhaps a cuddly stuffed toy that’s a compulsory bedtime companion. In 2012, the acclaimed Seth MacFarlane introduced audiences to an exceptional toy, unlike any other — a sentient, wise-cracking teddy bear at the heart of the comedy film, “Ted.” The film, the first of a duo, tells the story of John Bennett, who as a child wished his plush teddy bear into existence. As adults, they share a household, with the bear aptly named Ted. While John and Ted have maintained a close bond over the years, John’s girlfriend Lori does not share the same enthusiasm about their friendship. This leaves John with a tough decision: continue to cherish his bond with his rather obscene best friend, or let go of his childhood companion to focus on his relationship with Lori.
Following the impressive box office performance of “Ted,” a sequel was launched in 2015. In “Ted 2,” John and Lori’s relationship has ended, and Ted is grappling with relationship issues with his wife, Tami-Lynn (surprisingly, teddy bears do tie the knot). In an attempt to mend their relationship, Ted and Tami-Lynn decide to start a family, with John’s assistance. However, their plans go awry, leading to Ted’s designation as government property and subsequent loss of his rights. Now, Ted and his rookie lawyer must battle to get his life back on track, a journey fraught with difficulties.
Though a third installment, “Ted 3,” was uncertain, the franchise was revived when the streaming service Peacock greenlit a prequel series to “Ted.” The forthcoming series was officially announced in 2021, promising audiences an insight into John and Ted’s early escapades. With the prequel series’ launch nearing, we’ve put together all the known information, encompassing cast members, creative team, plotline, and more.
When and Where Can We Expect the Ted Prequel?
The “Ted” prequel is yet to announce a specific release window or date. Upon its premiere, the inaugural 10-episode season will be available exclusively on Peacock.
What is the Prequel About?
As of now, finer details regarding the prequel’s storyline remain confidential. Broadly, viewers can anticipate a deeper understanding of Ted’s life before the movies. Earlier disclosures from MacFarlane confirmed the prequel’s setting in 1993, focusing on John and Ted’s shared adolescence. MacFarlane assured fans that the prequel’s tone would mirror the original films, claiming that those who enjoyed the initial movie and its tone will be satisfied with the prequel.
Who Are the Stars in the Ted Prequel?
The “Ted” prequel will largely feature a fresh cast, with Seth MacFarlane returning to voice the eponymous character. MacFarlane, known for his work on FOX’s long-standing animated series “Family Guy,” has voiced numerous characters such as Peter Griffin, Brian Griffin, Stevie Griffin, and more. He’s also contributed to “American Dad!” and “The Cleveland Show.” In the realm of live-action, MacFarlane is renowned for “The Orville,” “Logan Lucky,” and “A Million Ways to Die in the West.”
The prequel introduces Max Burkholder as the youthful John Bennett, previously portrayed in adulthood by Mark Wahlberg. Burkholder’s previous roles include Max Braverman in “Parenthood,” and credits in “Family Guy,” “My Friends Tigger & Pooh,” and “The Land Before Time” (2007).
John’s mother is portrayed by Alanna Ubach, recently seen in “Fool’s Paradise.” Ubach’s resume includes television series like “Euphoria,” “Welcome to the Wayne,” “Girlfriends’ Guide to Divorce,” among others. She’s also lent her voice to animated movies such as “Coco” and appeared in live-action films like “To the Bone.”
Scott Grimes, a fellow “The Orville” alumni and voice actor for “American Dad!,” plays the role of John’s father. His notable performances include roles in “ER,” “Band of Brothers,” “Justified,” “Robin Hood” (2010), and the upcoming Christopher Nolan’s “Oppenheimer.”
Giorgia Whigham completes the new lineup as John’s cousin Blaire. Whigham has been a recurring figure in shows like “The Orville,” “Legacies,” “The Punisher,” and “13 Reasons Why,” and recently appeared in Showtime’s “Waco: The Aftermath” and “A Little White Lie.”
Who Is Behind the Creation of the Ted Prequel?
Seth MacFarlane serves as the executive producer and writer for the “Ted” prequel under his production company Fuzzy Door Productions. Besides co-writing, directing, and producing both films, MacFarlane has created and executive produced numerous shows he stars in, including “American Dad!,” “Family Guy,” “The Cleveland Show,” and “The Orville.” Collaborating with him on the “Ted” series are frequent colleagues Jason Clark, Alana Kleiman, and Erica Higgins. The prequel is co-written and co-showrun by Paul Corrigan and Brad Walsh, who previously collaborated on “Modern Family,” “King of the Hill,” and “In the Motherhood.”
When Was the Ted Prequel Filmed?
The shooting for the “Ted” series began in August 2022 and lasted for three months, with Seth MacFarlane announcing the wrap-up of filming on November 24, 2022, via Instagram.
Is There a Trailer for the Ted Prequel?
At this moment, Peacock has yet to release a teaser or trailer for the “Ted” prequel series. Fans can revisit the trailer for the first film to recapture the humor style of the upcoming series.
Where Can One Watch the Original Ted Movies?
For those who missed the original “Ted” movie or wish to revisit it, the film is available on Netflix and digital platforms such as Amazon, Vudu, Apple TV, and YouTube for rental or purchase. The film is also accessible on DVD and Blu-ray, either individually or in a combo pack with “Ted 2.”
Regrettably, “Ted 2” is not available for streaming but can be rented or bought on Amazon and other digital platforms. It can also be purchased on DVD or Blu-ray, individually or in a pack with the original “Ted.”
