Today : Sep 30, 2025
Arts & Culture
30 September 2025

Lisa Signs With WME After White Lotus Debut

The Thai superstar and Blackpink member expands her career into acting after a breakout role in HBO’s The White Lotus and a history of record-breaking achievements.

Lisa, the Thai superstar best known as a member of the record-breaking K-pop group Blackpink, has taken a bold new step in her already dazzling career. On September 29, 2025, Lisa (born Lalisa Manobal) signed with WME, one of Hollywood’s leading talent agencies, for exclusive representation in her acting career. This move comes hot on the heels of her much-talked-about acting debut in the Thailand-set third season of HBO’s acclaimed series The White Lotus, a role that has catapulted her into the global spotlight as an actor and not just a music icon.

Lisa’s journey into acting began with her portrayal of Mook, a wellness professional and the love interest of Gaitok (played by Tayme Thapthimthong), in The White Lotus. The season, released in February 2025, was met with critical acclaim and racked up an impressive 23 Emmy nominations, including a nod for Outstanding Drama Series. According to Deadline, Lisa’s performance was widely praised and brought a fresh, international dimension to the show’s already diverse cast. The global attention surrounding her role has only intensified as awards season approaches, with many fans and critics alike eager to see how far her acting career might go.

But acting is just the latest chapter in a career that has been nothing short of meteoric. Lisa first rose to global fame as a member of Blackpink, the powerhouse K-pop group behind the chart-topping albums The Album (2020) and Born Pink (2022). Her transition from group member to solo artist was seamless and, by all accounts, groundbreaking. In 2021, Lisa launched her solo career, quickly breaking multiple Guinness World Records—including, most notably, the record for the most Instagram followers for a K-pop artist. As of September 2025, her Instagram following stands at a jaw-dropping 107 million, a testament to her widespread influence and enduring popularity.

Lisa’s list of accolades doesn’t end there. She made history as the first solo K-pop act to win at both the MTV Video Music Awards and the MTV European Music Awards, a feat that underscores her status as a true global trailblazer. These achievements, as reported by The Express Tribune, have helped cement Lisa’s reputation not just as a pop star, but as a cultural phenomenon with the ability to break through barriers and set new standards for artists worldwide.

Her entrepreneurial spirit is equally impressive. In 2024, Lisa founded her own management company, LLOUD Co., with the aim of shaping her own artistic vision and creating a platform for her work in music and entertainment. Through LLOUD Co., she released her debut solo single “Rockstar” in partnership with RCA Records. The track, produced by Ryan Tedder and Sam Homaee, was followed by the sultry “New Woman,” a collaboration with Grammy-winning Spanish artist Rosalía, and the evocative “Moonlit Floor.”

Lisa’s debut solo album, Alter Ego, dropped on February 28, 2025, and made an immediate impact. It debuted at number seven on the Billboard 200 and soared to number one on the Billboard Top Album Sales chart, according to Deadline. The album’s success further solidified Lisa’s standing as a solo powerhouse, capable of commanding attention and sales on a global scale. Not one to rest on her laurels, Lisa made her Coachella debut in April 2025, bringing her signature style and energy to one of the world’s most prestigious music festivals.

Fashion has also played a significant role in Lisa’s rise. She currently serves as a global ambassador for luxury brands Bulgari and Louis Vuitton, frequently appearing in high-profile campaigns and at major fashion events. Her influence in the fashion world, as noted by The Express Tribune, has helped bridge the gap between music, entertainment, and style, making her a sought-after figure in multiple industries.

Despite her expanding portfolio, Lisa has made it clear that her new partnership with WME is focused solely on her acting endeavors. Her music representation remains with LLOUD Co. and The Lede Company, ensuring that her artistic vision in music continues to be guided by the team she trusts. This division of representation, highlighted by both Deadline and The Express Tribune, allows Lisa to pursue her ambitions in film and television while maintaining full creative control over her music career.

Lisa’s move to WME is more than just a business decision; it’s a signal to the entertainment industry that she’s ready to take on new challenges and expand her influence far beyond the world of K-pop. WME, known for representing some of the biggest names in film and television, is expected to help Lisa navigate Hollywood’s complex landscape and secure roles that will showcase her range as an actor. Industry insiders are already speculating about potential projects and collaborations, with many predicting that Lisa’s unique blend of charisma, talent, and international appeal could make her a sought-after presence in both Eastern and Western markets.

Her acting debut in The White Lotus is already being hailed as a turning point. The show’s third season, set against the lush backdrop of Thailand, offered Lisa the chance to bring her heritage and personal experiences to the screen. Her character, Mook, was described by Deadline as “a wellness professional love interest,” and Lisa’s nuanced performance was noted for its authenticity and emotional depth. With 23 Emmy nominations, the season’s success has only added fuel to the fire of Lisa’s burgeoning acting career.

For fans, the news of Lisa’s signing with WME has sparked excitement and anticipation. Social media has been abuzz with speculation about her next moves, and industry observers are watching closely to see how her career evolves. With her track record of breaking records and defying expectations, few would bet against Lisa making a major impact in Hollywood and beyond.

As Lisa continues to build her legacy across music, fashion, and now acting, her journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring artists around the world. Her ability to reinvent herself, take risks, and succeed on her own terms is a testament to her talent and determination. Whether on stage, on screen, or in the boardroom, Lisa’s star shows no sign of dimming.

With WME in her corner and an ever-growing list of accomplishments, Lisa stands poised to redefine what it means to be a global entertainer in the 21st century. The world will be watching—and, if history is any guide, Lisa will be ready for the spotlight.