The White Lotus Season 3: When will the show release? Premiere date, plot and trailer

After impressing audiences with its previous seasons set in Hawaii and Italy, the hit series The White Lotus is heading to Thailand for its third season. The luxury resort chain’s latest locale promises new mysteries, rich character dynamics, and the signature blend of dark comedy and drama that has made the show a critical and audience favorite.

Premiere Date and Availability

The inaugural season of The White Lotus debuted in July 2021, followed by the second season in October 2022. Fans were initially anticipating a 2024 release for Season 3, but the ongoing SAG-AFTRA strike has pushed the premiere to 2025.

Once it airs, viewers can catch the new season on HBO and stream it on Max. UK audiences will find it available on Sky Go and NOW.

Updates regarding the exact release date will be provided as they become available, as mentioned in a report by Collider.

Trailer Status

As of now, there is no official trailer or teaser for Season 3. However, Max has released a brief clip as part of its 2024-2025 lineup, which features a quick glimpse of the new season and includes the voiceover: “Whatever happens in Thailand, stays in Thailand.” Fans should stay tuned for more promotional material as the release date approaches.

Plot Details

The White Lotus has consistently explored themes of power, wealth, and human nature through its darkly comedic lens. The first season delved into issues of class and privilege, while the second focused on sexuality.

Season 3 is set to explore themes of death and spirituality, set against the backdrop of Buddhist practices in Thailand. According to lead actor Carrie Coon, the new season will be an “exploration of death in the middle of a Buddhist way of life”, as quoted in a report by Collider.

The upcoming season will introduce a new cast of characters, including a multi-generational family with diverse roles such as a patriarch, a female corporate executive, an actress, and others. This season promises to continue the show’s tradition of juxtaposing exotic locales with complex, often disturbing narratives.

Cast Information

The third season features an impressive ensemble cast. Among the notable actors are Jason Isaacs, Michelle Monaghan, Leslie Bibb, Dom Hetrakul, Parker Posey, Carrie Coon, and Walton Goggins. Additional cast members include Patrick Schwarzenegger, Sarah Catherine Hook, and Aimee Lou Wood. Julian Kostov is expected to play a recurring role as a Russian yogi.

Natasha Rothwell will reprise her role from Season 1, and there is speculation that Laura Dern might make an appearance, although there is no confirmation yet. Woody Harrelson, rumored to be part of the cast, will not be appearing due to scheduling conflicts.

Creators and Production

Mike White, the creative force behind The White Lotus, serves as the series' creator, writer, and director. His previous works include Year of the Dog and Enlightened. The production team also includes Nick Hall, David Bernad, and Mark Kamine as executive producers.

Cinematographers Ben Kutchins and Xavier Grobet, along with art directors Charles Varga and Silvia Colafranceschi, are returning to bring the new season’s visual splendor to life. Cristobal Tapia de Veer and Kim Neundorf are expected to return as composers for the new season’s score.

Filming Locations and Experience

Filming for Season 3 commenced in February 2024 across Thailand, with notable locations including Koh Samui, Phuket, and Bangkok. Principal photography wrapped up in August 2024, as shared by Patrick Schwarzenegger on social media. Cast members, including Jason Isaacs, have described the filming experience as intense and immersive.

Episode Count and Future Expectations

The show’s episode count has varied in previous seasons, with the first season having six episodes and the second seven. Season 3 may follow a similar pattern, with potential for more episodes as hinted by Mike White, who promises a “supersized” and “crazier” season. Given the success and viewership of Season 2, a longer season is anticipated.

FAQs

Is season 3 of White Lotus coming out?

Yes, The White Lotus is returning for a third season—and it’s going to be "supersized." HBO officially renewed the hit series in November 2022.

Will Theo James be in White Lotus 3?

James is not expected to return for Season 3 of The White Lotus, as the new installment will introduce an entirely new cast.