Who's who in 'The White Lotus' S03? A character guide
What's the story
The third season of Mike White's vacation dramedy, The White Lotus, has taken us to the stunning tropical paradise of Koh Samui, Thailand.
After its previous locations in Hawaii and Italy, this season goes further from America and broadens its narrative with more characters over eight episodes.
The ensemble features a Southern family featuring complex sibling dynamics, three middle-aged women on a tense reunion trip, and a cheerful girlfriend with her unhappy boyfriend.
Character spotlight
Belinda and Mook
Natasha Rothwell returns as Belinda Lindsey from Season 1, moving from Maui to Koh Samui for a three-month wellness program.
Belinda's past includes a friendship with Tanya McQuoid (Jennifer Coolidge), a wealthy heiress who had once promised to support her in opening her spa.
Another interesting character is Mook, played by Lalisa Manobal of the band BLACKPINK. Mook is a kind wellness coach at The White Lotus resort who befriends Gaitok, one of the resort's security guards.
Character growth
Jaclyn and Kate
Jaclyn, portrayed by Michelle Monaghan, is a well-known actor who funds a girls' trip to Thailand with her childhood friends, Kate (Leslie Bibb) and Laurie (Carrie Coon).
While Jaclyn is excited about reuniting and celebrating her life, there's a subtle tension as she and Kate inadvertently exclude Laurie. Kate, on a "victory tour," is focused on catching up and seeking gossip from her old friends.
Relationship dynamics
Rick, Chelsea, and Chloe
Rick, played by Walton Goggins, is free-spirited Chelsea's (Aimee Lou Wood) significantly older boyfriend. He's secretive and involved in shady dealings, leaving Chelsea suspicious of his actions.
Chloe, portrayed by Charlotte Le Bon, is a model who lives nearby and befriends Chelsea at the White Lotus.
The two women bond over their shared dissatisfaction with their partners, creating a connection amid their chaotic relationships.
Resort Power Dynamics
Sritala and Fabian
Sritala, portrayed by Patravadhi Mejudhon, is the owner of the White Lotus Thailand. A former actor, she now runs the resort with her husband, Jim, who's recovering from a stroke. Fabian, played by Christian Friedel, is the general manager of the resort.
Eager to please his boss, Fabian often finds himself in awkward situations while trying to preserve a favorable public image in front of the guests.
Hidden Romance
Gaitok and Valentin
Gaitok, played by Tayme Thapthimthong, is a security guard at the White Lotus who has a quiet crush on Mook (Manobal).
The third season of The White Lotus also has a diverse cast of hotel employees. Among them is Valentin, played by Arnas Fedaravicius, who is often seen without a shirt.
New episodes will be out every Monday morning for Indian viewers.