The latest episode of The White Lotus has sparked controversy with its depiction of incest between two brothers, Saxon and Lochlan Ratliff. The show’s writer, Mike White, has been praised for tackling the taboo topic in a bold move to highlight the corruption and dysfunction within the wealthy elite.
Saxon, played by Patrick Schwarzenegger, woke up after a wild night with memories of his brother Lochlan being brutally clear. The brothers’ relationship was already strained, but things took a dark turn when Saxon realized he had slept with his own brother during a drunken dare. The incident has left many questioning the power balance between the two brothers.
The White Lotus has been known to push boundaries in its storytelling, and this latest twist is no exception. By exploring themes of incest and corruption, writer Mike White aims to expose the deep-seated issues within the wealthy community. The show’s creator, David Bernad, has confirmed that the scenes are not just shocking for shock value but serve a specific purpose in the narrative.
This move by HBO marks another instance of TV incest becoming more common in prestige dramas. From Game of Thrones to True Detective, shows have been using incest as a plot device to explore themes and characters. The White Lotus joins this list, sparking conversations about the role of sex and power within wealthy communities.
While some may criticize the show for its explicit content, it’s clear that writer Mike White is trying to make a point. By tackling the taboo topic of incest, he aims to highlight the corruption and dysfunction that lies beneath the surface of wealth and privilege. The White Lotus has once again proved itself to be a bold and thought-provoking series.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/tv-and-radio/2025/mar/25/the-white-lotus-tv-incest-scenes