Mike White came to prominence when he wrote and starred in dark gay comedy Chuck & Buck in 2000, and 25 years on, is one of the most sought-after writers in Hollywood. He discusses his inspirations and motivations with Jim Halterman.
As The White Lotus concludes its thought-provoking third season, its creator, Mike White, has cemented his reputation as one of television’s most compelling storytellers. Known for his sharp wit, satirical lens, and fearless exploration of human nature, White has built a career writing complex, flawed, and deeply human characters. White is also one of Hollywood’s few openly bisexual screenwriters and directors, bringing a unique perspective to the industry.
With The White Lotus Season 3 set in Thailand, White continues his streak of combining luxury, existential crises, and biting social commentary into one deliciously messy package. But his journey to this point is just as fascinating as the show itself.
From Conservative Beginnings to Hollywood Success
Born into a conservative Christian community, White’s upbringing was turned on it’s head by his father’s late-in-life coming out as gay in 1994, something that would later shape the nuanced way he portrays sexuality, masculinity, and power in his work.
White’s early career saw him writing for cult-favourite TV shows like Freaks and Geeks and Dawson’s Creek before breaking into film. His indie hit Chuck & Buck (2000), in which he played a deeply obsessive man fixated on the male friend he fooled around with as children, was named Entertainment Weekly’s best film of the year. Actor Jeff Bridges even called it “the performance of the decade.” White’s ability to tell uncomfortable, emotionally raw stories became his trademark, leading to hits like The Good Girl, and Brad’s Status.
Despite his success, White has never conformed to Hollywood’s expectations. He has openly discussed his bisexuality, a rarity in an industry that still struggles with bi erasure. His personal experiences with sexuality and identity subtly inform many of his characters, adding layers to their motivations and conflicts.
The White Lotus: A Perfect Storm of Privilege and Chaos
When The White Lotus premiered in 2021, it quickly became a cultural phenomenon. Each season takes place in a different exotic location, following a rotating cast of wealthy, deeply flawed tourists whose luxurious vacations unravel in unexpected ways.
For White, the setting is just as important as the story. He originally envisioned Season 3 in Japan but had an unexpected change of heart.
“I got very sick in Thailand, and while I was on a nebuliser for 48 hours, the whole season came to me,” White recalls. “After I got better, I told the producers, ‘I think I just came up with the season—and it’s in Thailand.’”
The new season explores themes of religion, spirituality, and the search for meaning—something White found particularly fitting in a country deeply rooted in Buddhist tradition.
“For the show to feel fresh, it needs to expand or shift,” he explains. “The first season was about privilege, the second season focused on sex and relationships, and this one deals with religion and existential questions.”
Exploring Masculinity, Power, and Expat Culture
A master at dissecting societal norms, White is particularly interested in the complexities of masculinity.
“In Thailand, I noticed a lot of expat men who seemed to have mysterious pasts,” he says. “Bald guys travelling alone, younger girlfriends, vague explanations about where they came from. It made me wonder: What are they running from? That really inspired some of the characters this season.”
White’s ability to weave these observations into his storytelling is what makes The White Lotus so engaging. The show never outright condemns or glorifies its characters—it simply holds up a mirror and lets the audience judge for themselves.
Friendship, Envy, and the Pain of Looking Back
Season 3 also takes a deep dive into female friendships, exploring how childhood bonds can become sources of both comfort and torment.
“I had this idea of three friends who seem interchangeable at first,” White explains. “They all have this excitable energy, but as the season unfolds, their differences start to unravel their time together.”
This kind of layered storytelling is what makes The White Lotus so gripping. It’s never just about the scandal—it’s about the deep emotional wounds beneath it.
Lisa from BLACKPINK: From Pop Star to Actress
One of the season’s most exciting additions is Lisa Manobal of BLACKPINK, who makes her acting debut in the show.
“I didn’t know much about BLACKPINK,” White admits. “I was resistant to the idea of ‘stunt casting,’ but when Lisa came in, she blew me away. She just did the best job.”
Lisa’s casting adds another layer of intrigue, as White continues to blend international influences into his storytelling.
A Hollywood Rebel Who’s Here to Stay
Beyond his critically acclaimed work, White has built an eclectic career—including reality TV appearances on Survivor and The Amazing Race. While his quirky, offbeat approach to Hollywood might seem unconventional, it’s precisely what makes him so refreshing.
As one of the few bisexual men in Hollywood with mainstream success, White’s work is a testament to the power of authentic, fearless storytelling. He doesn’t just write about identity, privilege, and power—he challenges them, making audiences think, laugh, and cringe in equal measure.
With The White Lotus Season 3, Mike White once again proved that he is one of television’s most daring and essential voices.
The White Lotus Season 3 is streaming now on NEON.
