Cover ‘The White Lotus’ season 3 debuts on Max on February 17. Here, the cast share their experiences on set, what to expect and more (Photo: Max)
‘The White Lotus’ season 3 debuts on Max on February 17. Here, the cast share their experiences on set, what to expect and more (Photo: Max)
1 / 1
As we wait in anticipation for ‘The White Lotus’ season 3 to arrive on Max this February 17, the cast share their experiences on set, what to expect and more
The long wait is almost over as the Emmy-winning anthology series The White Lotus is set to return for its third season on February 17 on the brand new streaming service Max. The upcoming season promises another darkly comedic and suspenseful exploration of human nature set against the backdrop of a luxury resort.
Created, written and directed by Mike White, the series first premiered in July 2021. The anthology follows guests and employees of the fictional White Lotus resort chain, whose interactions are affected by their various psychosocial dysfunctions.
Since its first season, The White Lotus has garnered critical acclaim for its smart and droll narrative, dissecting powerful themes such as sexuality, morality, wealth, gender and power dynamics across social classes. Each season introduces a new story, setting and group of characters while maintaining a consistent structure where the bright and cheery locale contrasts with the dark complexities of the characters. Unexpected twists are revealed throughout the series, keeping us hooked across each episode.
Read more: Stay at the idyllic Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui, backdrop of ‘The White Lotus’ season three
Above Carrie Coon, Michelle Monaghan and Leslie Bibb star as three longtime friends
Carrie Coon, Michelle Monaghan and Leslie Bibb star as three longtime friends
1 / 1
Death and spirituality
While season one focused on wealth and season two explored sex, the upcoming season will delve into death and spirituality. Carrie Coon, who plays Laurie in season three, shares that White is also seeking to explore the question of identity in the show.
The upcoming season is set in Thailand, and Leslie Bibb, who plays Kate in the series, says the country is the perfect setting to discuss these topics: “You can’t be in Thailand without having [these themes] touched on,” she says. Before production began, Bibb shares that the cast was invited to witness a blessing of the film site. She explains this involvement contributed to a deeper and more sacred production experience from the beginning.
Above Lalisa Manobal and Tayme Thapthimthong play Mook and Gaitok in the upcoming season
Lalisa Manobal and Tayme Thapthimthong play Mook and Gaitok in the upcoming season
1 / 1
New and familiar faces
The third season introduces a new ensemble cast, including Blackpink’s Lalisa Manobal (better known as Lisa) and Tayme Thapthimthong who play Mook and Gaitok respectively in the show. Both Manobal and Thapthimthong explain that their latest roles helped them grow closer to their roots.
After moving back to Thailand from London 12 years ago, Thapthimthong says: “I felt very connected with Thailand already but doing a show that represents Thailand in such a cool way … just increased my appreciation [for the country]. It made me even more proud to be Thai.”
Above Natasha Rothwell returns as Belinda in season 3
Natasha Rothwell returns as Belinda in season 3
1 / 1
Similarly, Manobal shares: “I moved to South Korea when I was 14 so it’s really nice to be back in my home country and stay there for six to seven months. I felt like I knew why they chose Thailand because the country is so beautiful. Our food, our culture, everything is amazing. I feel reconnected to Thailand.” Starring as a resort employee in the upcoming season, this also marks the singer’s acting debut.
While the third season introduces a new ensemble cast, we will also see the return of familiar faces, including Natasha Rothwell who will be reprising her role as Belinda Lindsey from season one.
Above Parker Posey plays Victoria Ratliff in ‘The White Lotus’
Parker Posey plays Victoria Ratliff in ‘The White Lotus’
1 / 1
Grander and darker
Despite the change in location and theme, The White Lotus remains true to its roots by exploring the interpersonal friction and rising suspense among its characters. While the plot details are closely guarded, the season promises to be grander and darker than its predecessors.
The White Lotus’s upcoming season will no doubt be an exciting one—something that even the cast can attest to. Manobal, who has been a fan of the show since the beginning highlights: “I think this season is crazy too. I think [viewers] will love this season.” Agreeing with the Kill This Love singer, Thapthimthong says: “You’ll be very very entertained.”
Parker Posey who plays Victoria Ratliff in the new season adds: “When I read the episodes, I forgot who died in the end. I was so caught up in this story and loving these characters that I didn’t want to know.”
The upcoming season will be well worth the wait—take it from Rothwell, who teases: “It’s the best season yet. It really is.”
Credits
Images: Max
Topics
Amanda Goh was the former senior writer for Tatler Singapore.
