Imagine arriving at a luxurious five-star resort, ready for a week of indulgence, only to find that by the end of your stay, someone won’t make it out alive. This is the allure of The White Lotus, a show that transforms paradise into the backdrop for mystery, satire, and social commentary.
Each season of the series takes place over the span of one week, following wealthy families and groups of friends on their luxurious vacations at one of the hotels in the fictional “White Lotus” chain. With season one set in Maui, Hawaii, season two in Sicily, Italy, and season three on the Thai island of Koh Samui, The White Lotus is far from just a story about relaxing at a nice hotel—it’s a sharp and darkly comedic exploration of privilege and power.
Despite each season introducing a new setting, cast, and storyline, one constant remains: at the beginning of every season, the show jumps ahead to reveal that one of the guests has died—without telling the audience who it is. The rest of the season then rewinds to the start of the vacation, leaving viewers to piece together the mystery as tensions rise.
While the mystery aspect plays a large role in the show’s intrigue, it isn’t truly the main focus. The White Lotus delves into themes of race, wealth, religion, politics, and nearly every major social construct with pointed and fierce commentary. Each episode escalates in drama, and the show is immensely entertaining, embracing an over-the-top and decadent plot while maintaining depth and intelligence.
Additionally, the cinematography is breathtaking, capturing the scenic beauty of each location. Episodes are also packed with visual symbolism, with objects, animals, and art often representing characters and themes within the show. The cast is another standout element. While viewers may not recognize many of the actors, it’s clear they are chosen for their tremendous talent, making the performances all the more immersive.
The show has already won 15 Emmys and been nominated for 43, solidifying its place as one of the best series television has ever seen.
New episodes of the latest third season air every Sunday at 8 pm Central, but if you haven’t watched the first two seasons yet, they’re absolutely worth it. The White Lotus is a must-watch—smart, hilarious, dramatic, and unlike anything else on TV.
