Warning of spoilers, the gripping finale of Season 3 of The White Lotus delivers a chaotic and tragic conclusion, resulting in multiple character deaths. Key moments include Rick’s deadly confrontation with his father, Jim Hollinger, and Chelsea’s heartbreaking fate. While some characters gain wealth or strengthen relationships, others face moral dilemmas. The Ratliff family emerges relatively unscathed but must confront a challenging future. The season is now available for streaming on Max.
Warning: Spoilers Ahead!
This article delves into the gripping finale of Season 3 of The White Lotus. If you haven’t watched it yet and wish to avoid spoilers, we recommend stopping here.
The Gripping Finale: A Tragic Conclusion
The finale of The White Lotus is nothing short of chaotic, as creator Mike White pulls no punches in delivering a heart-wrenching conclusion that results in the demise of several main and supporting characters. “It’s the quintessential theme of Greek tragedy: one person destroys what they cherish and seeks vengeance,” White shares in a behind-the-scenes featurette.
In the climactic moments, Rick, portrayed by Walton Goggins, sparks a deadly chain reaction that ends with at least five characters dead, including his girlfriend Chelsea, played by Aimee Lou Wood. Earlier in the episode, Chelsea had confidently asserted that she and Rick would be “together forever,” a statement that tragically rings true in the end. The owner of the White Lotus, Jim Hollinger, played by Scott Glenn, also meets his end, alongside two of his bodyguards.
As the final day unfolds for the hotel guests, some depart with newfound wealth, like Belinda (Natasha Rothwell), who remains true to her values and walks away with a whopping $5 million. Others, such as friends Laurie (Carrie Coon), Kate (Leslie Bibb), and Jaclyn (Michelle Monaghan), leave with strengthened bonds after facing potential separation. The Ratliff family, while not entirely happy, finds a semblance of unity as they head toward an uncertain future.
Unraveling the Chaos: The Shooting Incident
The series of tragic events begins when Hollinger returns to the hotel with his wife, leading to a confrontation with Rick. In a shocking twist, Rick steals Hollinger’s gun and shoots him at close range, only to discover that Hollinger is his father. “I remember your mother. She was an alcoholic and a liar,” Hollinger taunts, igniting Rick’s rage.
In a heartbreaking turn, Chelsea is shot by one of Hollinger’s bodyguards after warning Rick against making a reckless choice. As Rick attempts to save her, Gaitok (Tayme Thapthimthong) is ordered by Hollinger’s wife to shoot Rick, leading to further tragedy.
The narrative highlights a poignant moral: “Chelsea embodies a romantic fatalism in their relationship. She encourages Rick to shift his focus from the love he lacked to the love he currently has,” White explains.
Throughout the chaos, Rick seeks guidance from Amrita (Shalini Peiris), the spiritual advisor, before the shooting—an intervention that White suggests might have averted the crisis. “If Amrita had intervened with Rick, perhaps this catastrophe could have been avoided,” he adds.
Meanwhile, Gaitok drives off with Sritala Hollinger (Lek Patravadi), having become one of her drivers, and the narrative hints at his desire to connect with his love, Mook, played by Lalisa Manobal from Blackpink. “One of Buddhism’s core tenets is non-violence. We witness a character we empathize with become a hero for his girlfriend, yet this requires him to compromise his spiritual beliefs,” White states.
As the episode concludes, Belinda mirrors Tanya’s actions from Season 1, returning to America with her son and the $5 million from Greg/Gary (Jon Gries). “Belinda has faced many disappointments. Greg’s offer provides a way for someone else to benefit from a tragedy,” White explains.
The Ratliff family emerges from the turmoil physically unscathed, despite their financial struggles. Timothy (Jason Isaacs) ultimately decides against harming his family with poisoned cocktails, a decision that saves Lochlan (Sam Nivola) after he consumes a tainted smoothie. “We will rise as a family. We are strong, and family is paramount,” Timothy declares as they board the returning boat.
Reflecting on the Ratliffs’ fate, White elaborates, “This bittersweet ending illustrates that life goes on amidst personal realities. But what will they do without their comforts? I doubt Victoria (Parker Posey) can adapt to poverty; I’m sure she’ll find another way.”
Now, the entirety of Season 3 of The White Lotus is available for streaming on Max.