In the previous seasons of “The White Lotus,” shocking moments have unfolded, from Armond’s scandalous encounter with a younger employee to Tanya’s discovery of a deceptive relationship. However, creator Mike White takes it a step further in Season 3.
In the latest episode, brothers Lochlan and Saxon, along with two companions, engage in a night of revelry that leads to a controversial moment. The evening’s events, including a game of spin the bottle without the bottle, culminate in a surprising and discomforting sexual encounter between the brothers.
As the fallout of the night unfolds, the characters grapple with the implications of their actions, particularly the impact on their relationships and identities. Sam Nivola, who portrays Lochlan, sheds light on the filming process and his character’s journey in this pivotal episode.
Nivola delves into the challenges and complexities of portraying such a sensitive scene and the deeper exploration of his character’s sexuality. Each season of “The White Lotus” has pushed boundaries with its provocative storytelling, and this latest installment is no exception.
Stay tuned as Nivola shares his insights and experiences in bringing this intense storyline to life.
Was this your first experience filming a sex scene? Were you feeling nervous?
Yes, I was extremely nervous. I tend to be an anxious person, so I was especially on edge for a significant job like that. Filming the sex scene was nerve-wracking, particularly because we were on a boat and I get seasick, adding to the stress. Thankfully, the actual scene went smoothly. Mike White helped create a calming atmosphere, and I had complete trust in my co-stars, Patrick and Charlotte.
How do you establish trust with your co-stars, and what kind of preparation is involved?
I had a strong bond with Patrick since we had been shooting together for a few weeks, along with Sarah Catherine, Jason, and Parker. However, Charlotte had just arrived in Thailand a couple of days prior, and her second day of shooting involved that scene. Despite not knowing her well, we all trusted each other, believing in Mike’s casting choices. The dynamic worked seamlessly, even though it was a bit strange to be in a scene with Patrick, whom I consider a close friend. Building a connection with Charlotte was easier, given the lack of prior familiarity. It was an interesting experience kissing Patrick, feeling a bit conflicted because of our friendship.
Did you work with an intimacy coordinator for the scene?
Yes, we did have an intimacy coordinator. While I appreciate her guidance, I ultimately trusted Mike’s direction immensely. Intimacy coordinators tend to use clinical language that can feel awkward, but Mike’s straightforward approach made the process more comfortable. I believe intimacy coordinators are important, considering my parents’ experiences in the industry and the potential lack of support from some directors.
There are hints at a complex dynamic between the brothers in earlier episodes. Is Lochlan attracted to his brother, or is there another motivation?
I think Lochlan’s interest stems from insecurity rather than sexual attraction. He looks up to his siblings and seeks to understand the type of person he wants to become. He admires his brother’s qualities without a physical attraction, driven by curiosity and a desire to connect. Lochlan’s actions are more about trying to emulate his brother rather than any sexual intent. His misguided attempt on the boat reflects his misunderstanding of Saxon’s priorities, mistakenly trying to align himself with Saxon’s interests.
In the text, the speaker is contemplating the complex dynamics between the characters Lochlan, Saxon, and Mike. The speculation arises about Lochlan’s sexuality and gender identity, as well as the contrasting lifestyles of the siblings. The discussion delves into the character development and motivations, particularly focusing on Lochlan’s search for love and attention, regardless of gender. The uncertainty surrounding Lochlan’s attractions and the potential familial repercussions are explored.
Throughout the episode, Saxon is seen piecing together the events of the previous night, while Lochlan’s memory is questioned. The actor reflects on the director’s approach to exploring different subtextual interpretations of the scenes, ultimately emphasizing Lochlan’s lack of recollection until a pivotal moment in the story.
The conversation also touches on Lochlan’s ambiguous intentions when he mentions taking Saxon down, with the actor suggesting it may be a surface-level expression of competitiveness rather than a serious threat. The aftermath of their intimate encounter adds tension to the vacation, as Saxon distances himself from Lochlan, leading to feelings of regret and self-reflection for the latter.
The impending decision about Lochlan’s college choice is mentioned briefly, signaling a subplot that will unfold alongside the evolving relationships in the narrative. The text closes with a reference to the actor’s preparations before the episode airs, hinting at the impact the storyline may have on his personal life.
Have you informed your friends about what happened to Lochlan? Or will they be surprised? I mentioned it to my parents, but I haven’t told my sister as she’s not good at keeping secrets. Even though I’m bound by several NDAs, I did share with my girlfriend since she was present during the filming. I’m really worried about the possibility of being sued by HBO. This interview has been edited and condensed. Stay updated with the latest entertainment news from Variety, including new movies in theaters, Oscar predictions for 2026, and upcoming releases on Disney+. Don’t forget to sign up for Variety’s Newsletter and follow us on social media for more updates.
