Incestuous Kiss Shocks Fans in Latest Episode of ‘The White Lotus’

LOS ANGELES, CA — In a shocking narrative turn, the fifth episode of HBO’s acclaimed series ‘The White Lotus‘ Season 3 featured a controversial incest plot that has left viewers buzzing. During a wild party in Thailand, brothers Saxon (Patrick Schwarzenegger) and Lochlan Ratliff (Sam Nivola) engage in a kiss instigated by their female companions, Chelsea (Aimee Lou Wood) and Chloe (Charlotte Le Bon), prompting discussions about family dynamics and boundaries.

The scene unfolds during a lavish Full Moon Party where the brothers, eager to impress the two women, indulge in drinking and drug use. Amid playful chaos, Chloe encourages them to kiss, and Lochlan surprises everyone by leaning in and sharing not one, but two lingering kisses with Saxon.

Executive producer David Bernad defended the narrative choice, asserting, “Mike [White] is brilliant, and those big story turns are not just for shock.” He added that the plot point serves a significant purpose within the story’s larger thematic framework. “As the season wraps up, you’ll see the purpose of that story turn,” Bernad explained.

Reflecting on the scene, Schwarzenegger shared that the episode marks a pivotal unraveling for his character Saxon. He elaborated, “Episode 5 is when everything starts to unravel,” adding that the kiss leaves the audience questioning various influences at play, including substance abuse, peer pressure, and complex sibling dynamics.

Saxon and Lochlan’s relationship is further complicated by their tumultuous family background, including a drug-addicted mother, Victoria (Parker Posey), and a father, Timothy (Jason Isaacs), embroiled in a criminal investigation. This season also includes other characters navigating their own struggles, such as Rick (Walton Goggins) and a group of women on a getaway.

Schwarzenegger noted the discomfort that may arise while watching such scenes with family. “Maybe I won’t watch that episode with my family. I don’t know, we’ll see,” he said during a press conference.

Nivola mentioned the unique challenges of portraying the Ratliff siblings, saying, “We’re literally sharing a room,” which intensified their performances. The on-screen chemistry has led to a strong bond off-screen, adding another layer to the complex relationship they portray.

Critics and fans have voiced mixed reactions to the episode, debating the appropriateness of the incest storyline. As the show has previously tackled provocative themes, some viewers are split on whether this revelation pushes boundaries too far.

As the season progresses, Bernad assures fans that the narrative will unfold to provide deeper context and understanding of the character dynamics. “I love that family storyline, especially the brother story — and it culminates in a very satisfying way,” he said.

Audiences can watch new episodes of ‘The White Lotus’ Sundays at 9 p.m. ET/PT on HBO and stream them on Max.