HBO has officially renewed its acclaimed anthology series, The White Lotus, for a fourth season, much to the delight of fans who have been captivated by its unique storytelling and complex characters. The announcement came in January 2025, prior to the premiere of the third season, which aired on February 16, 2025. With the series creator Mike White already pitching ideas for the new season, anticipation is high regarding what direction the show will take next.
Patrick Schwarzenegger, who starred as Saxon Ratliff in season three, recently shared his thoughts on potential settings for the upcoming season. "I always thought a ski resort or mountain would be really beautiful," he said. However, he acknowledged the logistical challenges of filming in snowy conditions, adding, "On a yacht would also be really fun, I think." This reflects the show's penchant for luxurious yet precarious environments, as seen in previous seasons set in Hawaii, Sicily, and Thailand.
As fans eagerly await news about the fourth season, they are still reeling from the intense finale of season three, which concluded dramatically on April 6, 2025. The finale featured shocking twists, including the deaths of key characters, which have left viewers discussing the implications on social media. The episode garnered 4.8 million viewers, a testament to the show's popularity and the high stakes that have become a hallmark of the series.
In a recent episode of Max’s Unpacking the Episode, Mike White hinted that the fourth season will not follow the coastal theme of its predecessors. "For the fourth season, I want to get a little bit out of the 'crashing waves against rocks' vernacular," he stated, indicating a desire for a fresh perspective. HBO executive vice president Francesca Orsi also mentioned that location scouting for the new season was set to begin, with a potential European setting being discussed. "I can’t really say where we’re going to land, but chances are, somewhere in Europe," she noted.
Despite speculation about a cold-weather setting, producer David Bernad emphasized that White's aversion to the cold makes a winter-themed season unlikely. "Mike does not like the cold; he’s a California guy," Bernad explained. This rules out destinations like Aspen or Norway, which had been suggested by fans. Instead, reports have emerged that Egypt or Mexico could be the next backdrop for the series, as producers aim to explore new continents and settings.
While the cast for season four has yet to be confirmed, there is speculation that some characters from previous seasons may return. The show has a history of bringing back fan-favorite characters, such as Greg, played by Jon Gries, and Belinda, portrayed by Natasha Rothwell. However, many of the characters from season three, including Walton Goggins' Rick Hatchett and Aimee Lou Wood's Chelsea, are unlikely to return following their dramatic exits.
Fans have expressed excitement about the possibility of an all-star season, which would feature characters from past seasons. Schwarzenegger mentioned, "I’ve heard rumors of them doing an all-star season," and White expressed enthusiasm for the idea, suggesting that it could bring together memorable characters from the series. This concept has sparked interest among viewers who would love to see how these diverse personalities interact in a new setting.
As for the release date of season four, production is expected to begin in 2026, meaning fans might not see the new episodes until late 2026 or early 2027. This timeline aligns with previous seasons, which typically take around a year and a half to two years to produce. Given the show's track record of high-quality storytelling, the wait is likely to be worth it.
In summary, The White Lotus continues to be a significant player in the television landscape, with its unique blend of dark humor, social commentary, and compelling characters. As details about season four emerge, fans remain hopeful for an innovative setting and engaging storylines that will keep them on the edge of their seats. While the exact location and cast remain under wraps, the show's creator and producers are clearly committed to delivering another unforgettable season.
