In a remarkable turn of events that has captured the hearts of fans, Kiwi comedian Guy Montgomery recently revealed that he has a tattoo of fellow actor Patrick Schwarzenegger on his backside. This unusual and cheeky tribute stems from Montgomery's growing admiration for Schwarzenegger, the star of the HBO hit series, The White Lotus.
This intriguing revelation adds a personal touch to the conversations surrounding The White Lotus, a show that has become a cultural phenomenon by pushing boundaries with daring storylines and complex relationships among its characters.
Meanwhile, the series is currently generating buzz for a controversial storyline involving the characters Lochlan and Saxon Ratliff, played by actors Sam Nivola and Patrick Schwarzenegger. In the latest episode, aired on March 24, 2025, viewers were gripped by a storyline that has left many questioning the ethics of brotherly affection portrayed on screen. As it turns out, the dynamic between Lochlan and Saxon has evolved into an incestuous narrative, drawing both intrigue and criticism.
At the core of this storyline is the heartfelt yet awkward performance by actors Nivola and Schwarzenegger. According to Nivola, the intimate moment was particularly challenging because the two are “really good friends.” He expressed his discomfort during a recent interview with Variety, stating, “It was very weird kissing Patrick because he’s a really good friend of mine. And, you know, I’m straight, he’s straight.”
This emotional layering has added depth to the performances, particularly during episodes five and six where the brothers’ complex relationship is explored. Nivola elaborated, “It would have been easier if that was the first time we were meeting. Weirdly, it was easier to do things with Charlotte because there were no stakes.” Here, Charlotte Le Bon, who plays Chloe, is another layer to this intricate web of interpersonal dynamics.
In the backdrop of this dynamic, viewers have been captivated by the lengths the show goes to sensitively portray such polarizing themes. The show’s creator, Mike White, is known for taking daring risks with his writing, exploring the depths of human relationships in often unsettling circumstances.
As expected, the show has not been without its challenges. Nivola described dealing with his nerves while filming the sensitive scene, especially as they were on a boat, saying, “Doing the sex scene was nerve-racking, and we were on a boat, and I get seasick, so that was f***** stressful.” Oddly enough, the seasickness proved to be a significant barrier that added to his anxiety during filming.
The discourse surrounding such storylines is vital, not only for representing varied human experiences but also for challenging societal norms. In fact, this latest episode saw an impressive rating of 4.2 million viewers tuning in, indicating a growing appetite for narratives that push boundaries.
Reflecting on the complexities of these character arcs, it’s worth noting that the viewer's emotional engagement speaks volumes about the impactful storytelling that The White Lotus delivers. In pushing the limits of traditional narrative forms, the show taps into deep-seated human emotions, prompting discussions amongst audiences regarding morality and relationships. The strength of this series can thus be linked to how it unravels such intricate plots without losing sight of audience sensitivity.
The two leading characters, Lochlan and Saxon, were initially introduced to viewers in a lighthearted manner. However, the show soon revealed the more troubling undertones of their relationship. From the first episode, viewers could sense this magnetic but deeply complex bond, which ultimately culminated in an unexpected kiss that has sparked conversation on social media.
This moment in the show is emblematic of White's bold approach to storytelling, as he has established a reputation for weaving controversial themes throughout the series. Previous installments have explored diverse complexities in familial relationships, including the second season's awkward interactions between Quentin and his maybe-nephew Jack.
As fans eagerly anticipate the two remaining episodes of this season, discussion around the Ratliff brothers rages on. What lies ahead for their relationship? How will viewers continue to react to the unfolding drama? These questions only serve to heighten engagement and viewer investment in the unfolding narrative.
Moreover, the presence of intimacy coordinators on set has played a crucial role in ensuring that all actors felt comfortable during potentially compromising scenes. Nivola voiced his appreciation, despite the awkwardness of their terminology: “They used anatomically correct vocabulary that feels stale and awkward.”
For Montgomery, his tattoo serves as a humorous yet profound symbol of fandom, showcasing how art and storytelling create connections between individuals and characters far removed from reality. It reflects a broader trend where personal expressions of adoration for cultural figures become a form of identity.
With all these elements in play, it becomes clear that The White Lotus is not just another show but a phenomenon that catalyzes both reflection and discussion about the relationships that define us as human beings.
Fans like Montgomery serve as a reminder that the lines between admiration and personal attachment can blur in creative spaces, giving rise to unexpected yet meaningful forms of expression. In an industry where narratives increasingly confront the audience, The White Lotus brilliantly challenges expectations, setting the stage for compelling storytelling that resonates deeply.
