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Welcome to "The White Lotus" in Thailand
LONDON (AP) — Fans of "The White Lotus" are in for a treat as the series returns to television screens on Sky and HBO this Sunday, with Season 3 setting up shop at a luxurious resort in Thailand. While the move is sure to entice viewers with its exotic allure, there’s a bittersweet note: Jennifer Coolidge’s beloved character Tanya isn’t making a return. However, her absence opens the door for a new cast of characters to capture the audience’s hearts (and perhaps their ire). Among the newcomers are Michelle Monaghan, playing TV star Jaclyn, and Aimee Lou Wood, stepping into the role of a cool British guest. Natasha Rothwell, who first appeared in Season 1 as spa manager Belinda, is back, this time dealing with the fallout of her previous interactions with the wealthy and whimsical Tanya. Adding a fresh dimension to the ensemble, Blackpink’s Lisa makes her acting debut as a resort employee, Mook, adding a touch of star power to the mix.
A Nightmare Stay, A Dream Job
The concept of a holiday from hell might not sound appealing, but for the cast, it couldn’t be more desirable. Michelle Monaghan, who plays the TV star Jaclyn, was overjoyed to join the cast. "When I found out I got the role, I cried," she revealed. "It’s such a big deal and an incredible opportunity." The actress, known recently for her role in Apple TV+’s "Bad Monkey," sees her involvement in "The White Lotus" as "hands down, no doubt about it" the best job on television. The series’ blend of luxurious settings, compelling storytelling, and the chance to work with a talented ensemble in breathtaking locations makes it a standout.
The Challenges of Living On Location
While the idyllic setting might seem like a dream, the reality of filming for seven months away from home was more complex. Aimee Lou Wood, fresh from her role in Netflix’s "Sex Education," found the experience "claustrophobic" at times. "Usually, when you wrap, you go home. But here, it was like, wrap, and then you walk five steps to your little room. Breakfast the next morning, you’re seeing the same faces," she explained. Despite the challenges, Wood treasures the time she spent in Thailand, likening it to "The Truman Show" in its intensity and uniqueness. Natasha Rothwell, on the other hand, faced a different set of challenges. Her character, Belinda, is half-guest and half-staff, learning new rejuvenation techniques in Thailand to bring back to Hawaii. "I’m very delicate when it comes to green, slimy things," she joked, "so I had to tap into Belinda’s calm and meditative approach to handle the reptiles."
Thailand Takes the Spotlight
Each season of "The White Lotus" transports the audience to a new, glamorous resort. This time, the setting is Thailand, and it’s more than just a backdrop; it’s a character in its own right. Michelle Monaghan notes that the characters get to explore beyond the confines of the resort, visiting local joints and immersing themselves in the local culture. "This season, they really take in everything that Thailand has to offer," she said. "It feels like a real departure from what we’ve seen before, making the show feel much bigger in scope." Natasha Rothwell agrees, stating that viewers will love the extensive portrayal of Thailand. "The country itself feels like another character," she added, highlighting the rich cultural tapestry that adds depth to the narrative.
The New Faces of "The White Lotus"
This season introduces a host of new characters, each bringing their unique flair to the mix. Michelle Monaghan’s Jaclyn is on a girls trip with two old school friends, played by Carrie Coon and Leslie Bibb. Monaghan finds the portrayal of female dynamics in the show to be particularly authentic, crediting creator Mike White’s keen observational skills. "Mike is a real sponge when it comes to human behavior," she remarked. "He brings a lot of real-world experiences into the show." Aimee Lou Wood’s character, Chelsea, is the quintessential rock star girlfriend, staying with her older partner Rick, portrayed by Walton Goggins. "Mike has really gifted me with this character," Wood enthused. "She has a gentle heart, even though she can talk your ear off."
Behind the Scenes: Getting Beach-Ready
Life on set isn’t all glamorous, even in a tropical paradise. Michelle Monaghan had to endure weekly fake tan sessions to achieve the sun-kissed look of her character. "It was like marinating yourself in 100% humidity," she recounted. "While my co-stars were enjoying the sunset and a beer by the beach, I was in my hotel room waiting for this spray tan to dry." Aimee Lou Wood, known for her pale skin, managed to get a real tan during her time in Thailand. "It makes sense why I’ve never got one in two weeks," she quipped, acknowledging the length of the filming process. Each actor’s dedication to their role adds to the authenticity and charm of the series, making the viewer’s experience all the more immersive.
The Plus-One Question: Who Would You Travel With?
The characters of "The White Lotus" are as varied as they are complex, and each cast member has their own thoughts on who would make the best travel companion. Aimee Lou Wood believes Chelsea would be an ideal vacation buddy. "She could sit outside a 7-Eleven and chat with anyone. As long as she has someone to talk to, she’s happy," she said. Wood finds a parallel between her character and herself, noting that both are "yappers." Natasha Rothwell, drawing from her character Belinda’s expertise in hospitality, thinks Belinda would be an excellent travel partner. "She’s a people person and would definitely help me come out of my shell," Rothwell laughed. Michelle Monaghan’s Jaclyn, with her wealth and zest for life, is another top contender. "You’re going to have a great time, and she’s paying for it too," Monaghan concluded, making a compelling case for her character’s travel companionship.
