[This article contains significant spoilers from the season three finale of The White Lotus titled “Amor Fati.” ]
Final Revelations and Tragic Endings
In the gripping conclusion of The White Lotus’s third season, Rick Hatchett, portrayed by Walton Goggins, comes face-to-face with the architect of his despair—only to find himself ensnared in an even darker twist of fate.
The climactic episode delivered shocking outcomes as Rick and his girlfriend, Chelsea (Aimee Lou Wood), met a tragic end, just as creator Mike White had intended. The third key character, Jim Hollinger, played by the legendary Scott Glenn, becomes the centerpiece of Rick’s vendetta. In a stunning twist, Rick brutally shoots Jim after learning the shocking truth: Jim is not just his target, but also his father.
Before fans can fully grapple with these revelations, violence erupts, with Chelsea inadvertently caught in the crossfire and Rick ultimately succumbing to the chaos. As discussions about a potential fourth season loom, audiences are left to contemplate the emotional weight of this season’s heart-wrenching deaths. The Hollywood Reporter recently had the opportunity to delve into the finale’s profound moments with Glenn, exploring his insights on Jim’s character and the path forward in his career.
Unpacking the Character of Jim Hollinger
Did you have a complete understanding of Jim’s arc before you signed on to the series, particularly the father-son twist?
Absolutely. The entirety of Jim’s storyline was outlined in the script from the outset, and part of my commitment involved that understanding. We filmed various iterations of Jim’s death. Initially, there was a version where I could utter a final word while collapsing into Rick’s arms, which ultimately didn’t make the cut. Instead, Jim’s demise is portrayed more ambiguously, leaving room for interpretation—perhaps recovery is still possible in Thailand, given its exceptional medical resources. Nevertheless, it was a true joy to engage as part of Mike White’s creative endeavor.
The Connection to Thailand
What was your process for embodying Jim’s character?
What captivated me about Jim was his unique status—while all other characters were vacating the White Lotus after their stays, he was returning home. Having spent decades in Thailand, that aspect resonated with me deeply. One memorable scene from the series encapsulates a cultural reality: I found myself in a moment where I initially spoke English, despite my long-term life in Thailand. Recognizing my profound ties to the country and my family there helped me portray a character who transcends the typical expat narrative, instead embodying a persona that is deeply intertwined with Thai culture.
Complex Relationships on Display
Jim’s last words to Rick were striking and defiant. How did you approach that choice?
The decision not to reveal Jim’s fatherly role directly stemmed from his complicated history with Rick’s mother. The tumultuous relationship they shared informed my understanding of Jim’s hesitance to confront his past. As Jim reflects on his past with bitterness, choosing silence over connection was integral to his character development. His farewell to Rick was less about closure and more an acknowledgment of his painful transformation and acceptance of his life’s trajectory.
The Symbolism of “The White Lotus”
What did the term “Buakaw” mean in the context of Jim’s final moments?
This term, translating to “White Lotus” in Thai, symbolized a profound connection rooted in Thai culture. Notably, Buakaw Banchamek is celebrated in the world of Muay Thai, which I studied in preparation for embodying Jim. This cultural exploration deepened my appreciation for the character’s complexities, illuminating why the hotel bore the name “The White Lotus” ; it signifies spiritual attainment, which ultimately aligned with Jim’s realization as he faced death.
Collaborating with Mike White
What was your experience collaborating with Mike White on the character of Jim?
Working with Mike was a delightful experience. He embraced my unique acting style and fostered a creative environment that encouraged exploration. After expressing my methods of preparation and the newfound conceptual approach I had developed from earlier projects, we found a synchrony in our creative process. The culmination of this experience provides me with a sense of completion as I transition to my next role in the thriller Eugene the Marine, which I anticipate will showcase my best performance to date.
Looking Ahead
What should audiences expect next from you?
My upcoming project promises to be action-packed and full of unexpected turns. Featuring standout performances from an incredible cast, including Jim Gaffigan and Annette O’Toole, we are eagerly seeking a theatrical release for what I consider one of my most significant works.
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The White Lotus season two is currently available for streaming on Max. For comprehensive coverage of season three, including interviews and a breakdown of the finale, visit The Hollywood Reporter.