The anticipation is building as HBO releases the first teaser trailer for the highly acclaimed third season of The White Lotus. Set against the stunning beaches of Thailand, the new season promises the series’ signature blend of intrigue, secrets, and incisive social critique. Returning to the luxury resorts are Jason Isaacs and fan-favorite Natasha Rothwell, whose character Belinda returns as a masseuse on an exchange program.
TV
Creator Mike White hints that this season will explore Westerners’ fascination with Eastern spirituality, continuing the show’s tradition of blending sharp satire with compelling drama. The 90-second trailer introduces a cast that includes Walton Goggins, Carrie Coon, Leslie Bibb, Michelle Monaghan, and Patrick Schwarzenegger, all navigating the opulent yet tense environment of another White Lotus resort.
In the trailer, viewers are treated to scenes of both lavish parties and serene “stress-management meditations,” highlighting the contrasting experiences of the guests and staff. A poignant moment features a Buddhist monk stating, “Everyone runs from pain towards pleasure, but they get there only to find more pain,” setting the tone for the season’s exploration of deeper existential themes. Natasha Rothwell’s Belinda expresses her hopes amidst the chaos, saying, “I’m starting to feel like something good is going to come out of this,” hinting at the personal struggles and aspirations that will unfold.
Additionally, the appearance of a body bag suggests that, much like the first two seasons, tragedy may strike within the seemingly idyllic resort setting. This season also marks the acting debut of Lalisa Manobal, known as Lisa from the K-pop group Blackpink, who joins the cast as a resort dancer and staff member, adding a fresh dynamic to the ensemble.
Since its debut in 2021, The White Lotus has garnered numerous accolades, including multiple Emmy Awards for both seasons. The first season, set in Hawaii, earned 20 Emmy nominations and secured 10 wins, while the second season in Sicily received 23 nominations and five wins, including standout performances by Jennifer Coolidge. With HBO partnering with the Tourism Authority of Thailand, the third season was filmed at the luxurious Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui, as well as in Phuket and Bangkok, ensuring breathtaking backdrops for the unfolding drama.
Fans can look forward to the premiere of The White Lotus Season 3 on February 16, 2025, where the series is set to further its exploration of wealth, power, and the human condition amidst the serene yet complex landscape of Thailand.