The White Lotus Season 3 has officially wrapped, bringing another tension-filled chapter of the HBO dark comedy-drama to a close. Created by Mike White, the latest installment unfolded against the lush, moody backdrop of Thailand, exploring themes of spirituality and existential angst. Since its premiere on July 11, fans have been decoding every frame and interaction. While some praised the show's slow-burn storytelling and atmosphere, others found the pacing too sluggish—a critique that extended to the finale.
HBO has already renewed The White Lotus for a fourth season, a decision made in January 2025, months before Season 3 even aired, underscoring the network's confidence in the show’s continued success. However, the exact release date of the new season is not yet known. White previously mentioned to The Hollywood Reporter that location scouting has yet to begin and that he's taking a much-needed break after three years of nonstop work. Based on previous release timelines—Season 1 in summer 2021, Season 2 in fall 2022, and Season 3 expected in early 2025—Season 4 may not arrive until late 2026.
With previous seasons set in Hawaii and Sicily, Season 3 shifted to Thailand. While the location for Season 4 hasn't been finalized, executive producer David Bernad hinted it will likely be in a warm climate, noting that creator Mike White isn't a fan of cold weather. Thailand was originally chosen over Japan due to tax incentives, a factor that may influence the next setting as well.
Interestingly, White has explored unconventional locations, including Norway, and even approached the Norwegian Film Institute for support. However, the absence of Four Seasons resorts—a staple in past seasons—and the region’s cold climate could be deal-breakers. Still, HBO executive Francesca Orsi has teased the possibility of a European setting.
White Lotus creator Mike White has hinted at the setting for the show's highly anticipated fourth season. The first three seasons of the HBO series—filmed at luxury Four Seasons resorts close to a beach—served as White Lotus hotel chains. White teased that the location for season four might move away from the water. "For the fourth season, I want to get a little bit out of the crashing waves of rocks vernacular but there’s always more room for more murders at the White Lotus hotels," he shared.
While no specifics were provided, his hint suggests a departure from the expected hotel locations. Cast members previously ruled out cold locations, stating White prefers a warm climate. The Mail on Sunday has been told that producers are looking at Four Seasons hotels in Africa and Australia, with Marrakech in Morocco as the front-runner. A source at HBO reported that Mike wants to do a series of White Lotus on every continent. "He's done Hawaii and Italy and now Thailand. He hates snow, so the likelihood is Africa or Australia. No one thinks it will be Antarctica," the source noted.
"Season four has already been commissioned and Africa is the favorite. It has everything White Lotus fans expect—heat, exotic locations, and dramatic backdrops. Marrakech offers heat and intrigue. Nothing has been decided, but Africa is the way Mike is leaning," the insider added.
In addition to Morocco, the production crew is reportedly considering £1,000-a-night glamping at the Four Seasons in the Serengeti national park in Tanzania. The HBO source mentioned that Mike loves the idea of going to Africa, discussing options like Egypt and a safari. There are several possible locations under consideration.
While some fans have suggested filming in Mexico, the HBO source indicated that Mike likely won't return to the Americas after already filming in Hawaii. Rumors about Norway being a contender have also circulated, but a source stated, "Don't think that's true. Mike hates the cold." Earlier this year, it was reported that HBO was considering a Four Seasons hotel in Europe. Francesca Orsi confirmed that they are going on some location scouting in the next couple of weeks, so they'll know soon.
After the explosive finale of Season 3, which saw at least five characters die, Mike discussed the dramatic twists that unfolded. The finale featured a classic theme of Greek tragedy, where characters faced dire consequences for their actions. As fans eagerly await news about Season 4, speculation about its setting continues to grow.
As it stands, the show has established a pattern of filming at Four Seasons resorts, a partnership that began with a reported £25 million deal in 2021. Given the show's track record, the next location will likely be a luxurious destination that offers both beauty and intrigue, aligning with the series' themes of wealth, power, and moral ambiguity.
With the fourth season confirmed and the search for a new location underway, The White Lotus continues to captivate audiences with its blend of dark humor and social commentary. As the creators prepare to dive into the next chapter, fans can only speculate about the exotic locales and dramatic narratives that await.
