Mike White, the creator of HBO’s Emmy-winning series The White Lotus, recently opened up about his initial reluctance to cast K-pop star Lisa from BLACKPINK in the show’s third season. Despite her global fame and a massive fan base, White admitted he was unfamiliar with her identity and wary of the attention she could bring to the series.
Lisa, also known by her full name Lalisa Manobal, has joined The White Lotus Season 3 as Thidaporn “Mook” Sornsin, a health and wellness mentor at a luxury resort in Thailand. Her casting marks her acting debut and has generated tremendous buzz in the entertainment world. However, her journey into the show wasn’t as smooth as her fans might expect.
Mike White’s Initial Reluctance
During an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Mike White candidly revealed that he did not know who Lisa was when her name first came up during casting discussions. He also acknowledged he wasn’t keen on hiring a high-profile idol, primarily because of how much media attention it could bring to a project that thrives on subtle performances and storytelling.
“All I knew was there was a BLACKPINK girl in The Idol, and I thought, we’re not doing that,” White shared. He added that he initially said no, partly because of potential security issues and the overwhelming public attention Lisa’s casting might attract.
White feared that her celebrity might detract from the ensemble dynamic of the show, which has always prioritized story over star power. This explains Mike White’s initial hesitation to cast BLACKPINK’s Lisa, a decision that later turned into one of appreciation.
Lisa’s Desire to Break New Ground
For Lisa, joining The White Lotus was not just another gig—it was an opportunity to explore a new facet of her artistic identity. Having gained global recognition with BLACKPINK, she was eager to take on a challenge outside music. Acting was unfamiliar territory, and she approached it with humility.
Lisa explained in the interview that she traveled to Thailand secretly, accompanied by her mother, to audition for the show. She took acting classes to prepare and was visibly nervous during her first scenes. “I was sweating. I couldn’t remember my lines. I blanked,” Lisa recalled. But she quickly found her rhythm and impressed the crew with her dedication and professionalism.
From Doubt to Admiration
While Mike White initially declined to cast her, Lisa’s in-person audition changed everything. Executive Producer David Bernad revealed that Lisa’s performance “blew them away.” Her nuanced delivery and eagerness to learn convinced the team she was the right fit for the role.
White himself acknowledged how impactful Lisa’s audition was. “She was amazing. Nice and uncomplicated,” he said, admitting that he started to understand why people in Thailand saw her as more than just a pop icon. “She’s like Taylor Swift meets Princess Diana there.”
Her stature in Thailand is hard to overstate. Lisa, who was born and raised in the country, is adored across generations. White admitted he underestimated her influence and wanted to show respect to the Thai audience by giving her a platform in the series.
Behind-the-Scenes Emotions
Casting Lisa sparked emotional responses among the production team. Some members were reportedly brought to tears when she was officially cast, reflecting the deep cultural resonance she holds. It wasn’t just a casting decision—it felt like a national moment.
Lisa’s popularity also means her every move is scrutinized. White acknowledged the pressure she faces, noting, “Anything she does is scrutinized, so it’s a nice part, and she deserves it.”
Her Role in Season 3 of The White Lotus
In The White Lotus Season 3, Lisa plays Thidaporn “Mook” Sornsin, a wellness coach at a luxury resort in Thailand. She shares screen space with Tayme Thapthimthong, who plays Gaitok, the resort’s security guard and her character’s close friend.
The third season of the show has a largely American cast but is set against a Southeast Asian backdrop, making Lisa’s role even more significant. Her presence adds authenticity and local flavor to the series, which has shifted locales from Hawaii to Italy and now to Thailand.
The Bigger Picture
Mike White’s initial hesitation to cast BLACKPINK’s Lisa was not unfounded. Bringing in someone with that level of global recognition poses logistical and creative challenges. However, Lisa’s dedication, humility, and acting skills proved that talent should outweigh fame when it comes to creative decisions.
Her inclusion also reflects a growing trend in Hollywood, where cross-cultural casting is becoming more common. As American shows seek international appeal, casting stars like Lisa becomes both a strategic and artistic choice.
This also highlights how entertainment boundaries are blurring. K-pop idols are no longer just pop stars—they’re actors, fashion icons, and global influencers. Lisa’s transition from BLACKPINK to HBO marks a significant step in that evolution.
Fan Reactions and Streaming Info
Fans across the globe were thrilled when Lisa’s casting was confirmed. Social media buzzed with excitement, and her fans, known as “LILIES,” eagerly await her acting debut. The show is expected to draw new audiences in Asia, especially from Thailand and South Korea.
The White Lotus Season 3 is set to premiere on HBO and will be available for streaming on JioCinema in India. New episodes are scheduled to drop weekly, with the final episode slated to release on a Monday at 7:35 AM IST.
The ensemble cast includes Leslie Bibb, Carrie Coon, Walton Goggins, Sarah Catherine Hook, Jason Isaacs, Michelle Monaghan, Sam Nivola, Lek Patravadi, Parker Posey, Patrick Schwarzenegger, Aimee Lou Wood, Sam Rockwell, and Scott Glenn. Natasha Rothwell also reprises her role.
Mike White’s initial hesitation to cast BLACKPINK’s Lisa in The White Lotus serves as a powerful reminder of how preconceptions can be shattered by sheer talent and determination. From a hesitant “no” to a wholehearted “yes,” Lisa’s journey into the world of acting mirrors the resilience and ambition she has always shown in her career.
Her fans will not only get to see her in a new avatar but will also witness how a globally known performer humbly started from scratch to earn her place on screen. This might just be the beginning of a whole new chapter for Lisa in international entertainment.
