In recent episodes of HBO's acclaimed series The White Lotus, fans have noted the show's apparent homage to the long-running animated programme, The Simpsons. This connection comes in light of The Simpsons' previous parody titled "The Yellow Lotus," where the iconic Simpson family, while vacationing at a luxurious resort, encounters the character Sideshow Bob, voiced by Kelsey Grammer.
In a clear crossover reference, Marge Simpson is depicted poolside, engrossed in Barbra Streisand’s memoir, My Name Is Barbra. Coincidentally, the latest episode of The White Lotus features actress Michelle Monaghan reading the very same book. Al Jean, a veteran showrunner of The Simpsons, shared this comparison on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), positing that to fully grasp the intricate narrative of The White Lotus Season 3, viewers should first revisit the Simpsons episode. He included the hashtag "#simpsonsprediction," echoing the long-held belief that The Simpsons has an uncanny ability to predict real-world events.
While the pop culture nod sparked interest, it was not the only topic causing a stir. The ongoing plotline involving incest between the characters Saxon, portrayed by Patrick Schwarzenegger, and Lochlan, played by Sam Nivola, has generated significant online discourse. The series escalated this complex storyline after revealing that during a drunken escapade at a Full Moon Party, the brothers shared a kiss, followed by Lochlan performing a sexual act on Saxon, much to Saxon’s shock upon later discovering the events from a local resident, Chloe.
In an interview with Vanity Fair, Nivola reflected on the challenges of filming the controversial scenes. He expressed discomfort stating, “It was f***ing insane. I had never even kissed anyone on camera, let alone done a sex scene." He recounted discussing their roles with Schwarzenegger prior to filming, noting the initial shock of hearing about the intimate nature of the scene.
Further commentary came from Nivola regarding the reactions of fans. He conveyed that while some viewers find the narrative 'disturbing,' others are eagerly anticipating the progression of the storyline. Similarly, both actors discussed the artistic intent behind such a provocative plotline, suggesting it serves as a crucial catalyst for character development. Schwarzenegger elaborated on the complexities of masculinity that the storyline invokes, explaining the profound implications it has on their characters' identities.
As episodes unfold, the Ratliff brothers' narrative arc continues to captivate and challenge viewers, pushing the boundaries of traditional storytelling within the framework of a luxury vacation drama. The White Lotus, already known for its keen observations of societal dynamics, seems committed to exploring the murky depths of human relationships and the consequences that arise from them.
The White Lotus is available to view on HBO Max in the United States, while UK viewers can stream it on Sky or NOW.
Source: Noah Wire Services