[This article contains significant spoilers from the finale of The White Lotus season three, titled “Amor Fati.”]
The Definitive Closure: Mike White’s Vision for Season Three
From the very beginning, creator Mike White had a clear vision for the culmination of season three of The White Lotus. He expressed that the finale was the first facet of the season he conceptualized. “The ending was kinda the first thing I really thought of — Belinda leaving with money and leaving somebody in the same way she got left [in the first season],” White noted during a discussion on The White Lotus Official Podcast following the episode’s release.
A New Beginning for Belinda
The season finale, a detailed 90-minute episode, features Natasha Rothwell’s character, Belinda, coming full circle. Many fans drew parallels between Belinda and Tanya, the beloved character portrayed by Jennifer Coolidge, who tragically met her end in season two. Viewers are left pondering whether Belinda embodies Tanya or if she has evolved into Greg, Tanya’s ex-husband played by Jon Gries.
When asked to clarify, Rothwell hinted at a blend of both identities, suggesting, “Maybe she’s a little bit of both.” In a shocking twist, Belinda receives $5 million from Greg in exchange for her silence regarding the mysterious death of his late wife, Tanya. Their relationship, initiated in season one, saw Belinda and Tanya bond over business aspirations that were ultimately cut short by Tanya’s tragic downfall.
Transitions and Heartbreaks
Belinda’s ultimate act of defiance at the White Lotus in Thailand is to mirror Tanya’s previous abandonment, as she chooses to forsake her plans with her love interest, Pornchai. The story closes with Belinda and her son, Zion (Nicholas Duvernay), leaving on a jetboat, achieving a kind of bittersweet victory, now $5 million richer.
Rothwell reflects on this decision, noting, “I think that moment will feel like deja vu to the audience because of what happened to her,” highlighting how her exit carries a sense of kindness contrasted against Tanya’s more selfish departure. She reflects on the emotional weight of Belinda’s choice, suggesting that there’s a deeper sense of grief in Belinda’s farewell compared to Tanya’s more carefree leaving.
A Break from Expectations
In a poignant moment, Rothwell quotes Belinda’s line to her son, “Can’t I just be rich for five minutes?” This captures the essence of Belinda’s transformation and her desire for an instant of freedom from her financial obligations.
Rothwell elaborates on this moment, emphasizing that accepting wealth doesn’t exclude the need for personal reflection. “She’s taking care of herself,” Cohen explains, suggesting that Belinda is prioritizing her own needs over those of others.
Reflections on Representation
White admitted in the podcast that the conclusion of season one received mixed reactions, particularly emphasizing Belinda’s role as a Black character stuck in a hopeless cycle of servitude. After re-evaluating the narrative and the impact of Tanya’s death, White aimed to provide a redemptive arc for Belinda, offering her an unconventional chance for happiness.
He remarked, “It’s easy to be virtuous when you have no money and don’t have to put your money where your mouth is,” highlighting the complexities of financial dependence and personal dreams. He painted a picture of Belinda embracing her newfound wealth, contrasting it with the societal expectations of altruism.
The Future of Belinda
Looking ahead, White envisions a promising future for Belinda. “Maybe she will go and do something meaningful,” he mused, considering her journey akin to a modern-day “Stella Gets Her Groove Back.”With a hint of uncertainty regarding her next steps, Rothwell believes Belinda is likely to navigate this new reality away from Greg, perhaps even adopting a new identity. “She’s trying to adjust into this upper echelon of society,” Rothwell speculated.
Anticipation for Season Four
With the fourth season of HBO and Max’s acclaimed series already in the works, both Rothwell and Gries hinted at the possibility of returning. “Selfishly, I wanna come back,” Rothwell expressed, while Gries mentioned, “You never know. Everything Mike White does has an element of surprise.”
Belinda as a Relatable Figure
Rothwell identifies Belinda as a vital connection for the audience within the narrative tapestry of The White Lotus. Her character captures realistic, relatable emotions in a setting otherwise filled with elite complexities. “I think that’s why audiences are so drawn to Belinda,” Rothwell concluded, underlining the authenticity and depth she brings to the series.
As the threads of season three unravel, The White Lotus continues to provide rich narratives that challenge its audience while keeping them deeply engaged. For those interested in more insights and exclusive interviews, season two is now streaming on Max.