The White Lotus is a perfect example of how the words “limited series” scarcely mean anything in this age of streaming services, social media memes, and endless “content”. Originally conceived as an experimental one-off for HBO during the Covid-19 pandemic, Mike White‘s satire of privilege set against the backdrop of a lush Hawaiian resort was such a hit that it was renewed for a second season.
The White Lotus season 2, which concluded on December 12, 2022, shifted the action to Sicily, and while it retained the same overarching structure of a death — or several — being built up across weeks of holidaymaking, the theme this time around was sex, and how our carnal desires lead us down dark paths. Despite being considered by some as a step down in quality and purpose, this season was also very popular, which means fans will be wondering the obvious: Where are we going next year?
Here’s everything we know.
Will there be a Season 3 of The White Lotus?
Renewed or canceled status: Renewed
As Empire reported last month, The White Lotus has already been renewed for a third season. In fact, it was picked up after just two episodes of this second season had aired.
This is obviously good news for fans and offers a wide range of potential options for Mike White. One suspects that the cast will be completely changed once again, along with the setting, but if the presence of Tanya in the second season is an indication that there will be some connective tissue between each season, there’s a chance that we might see some familiar faces. We’ll have to wait and see.
Where might The White Lotus season 3 be set?
In the behind-the-scenes clip at the end of the Season 2 finale, White said that the third season may take place in Asia and focus on “death and Eastern religion and spirituality.” Asia is also a potential destination that White hinted at in an interview with Deadline. So, this is probably the likeliest location for the third season.
In “Arrivederci”, Cameron and Daphne jokingly suggested going to the Maldives next year, which could also be a bit of a clue that The White Lotus season 3 might be set in the Maldives. It might also be a way to bring Ethan, Harper, Cameron, and Daphne back for the third season, in the same way Tanya came back for the second, however, four returning faces might be overkill (although there does seem to be more of their relationship to explore.)
