[This article contains spoilers from the latest episode of The White Lotus, titled “Denials.” ]
Controversial Marketing: Duke University’s Response to The White Lotus
Duke University recently found itself in the spotlight for less-than-flattering reasons, thanks to the latest episode of HBO’s acclaimed series, The White Lotus. In a particularly intense moment, the character Timothy Ratliff, portrayed by Jason Isaacs, sports a Duke University T-shirt; however, this occurs during a scene in which he contemplates suicide while holding a firearm.
The incident did not go unnoticed. An X (formerly Twitter) user created a meme linking the scene to Duke’s disappointing performance in the March Madness NCAA basketball tournament. In response, the university issued a statement condemning the inappropriate nature of the meme, emphasizing the serious implications surrounding mental health. The school replied, stating: “Suicide is the second-leading cause of death on college campuses. Rivalry is part of March Madness, but some imagery goes too far. If you or someone you know needs support, call or text the Suicide Prevention Hotline at 988.”
Duke’s Official Stance on Intellectual Property Concerns
Frank Tramble, Duke’s Vice President for Communications, Marketing and Public Affairs, provided further insight into the situation during a conversation with the New York Times. He mentioned, “Duke appreciates artistic expression and creative storytelling, but characters prominently wearing apparel bearing Duke’s federally registered trademarks creates confusion and mistakenly suggests an endorsement or affiliation where none exists.” In his email, Tramble expressed disappointment that the show used their brand without permission, particularly in a context that the university found troubling and inconsistent with its values.
He further elaborated, stating, “The White Lotus not only uses our brand without permission but does so in a manner that does not reflect who we are and simply goes too far.”
Hollywood Reactions and Ongoing Controversies
Following the uproar, The Hollywood Reporter reached out for comments from both Duke University and Mike White, the creator of The White Lotus. However, HBO chose not to provide any official remarks regarding the incident.
This controversy is just one of many that season three of The White Lotus has stirred. The series is already infamous for its array of provocative content, including several nude scenes, an incest plotline, and even an incident where an actor was bitten by a snake on set. In an interesting twist, Jason Isaacs recently reacted to media inquiries concerning a controversial full-frontal scene, arguing it displayed a “double standard,” although he later clarified his remarks.