The White Lotus creator Mike White on casting Blackpink's Lisa in Season 3: 'She’s like Taylor Swift meets Princess Diana'

There will be a highly anticipated season finale of The White Lotus this coming weekend. More and more people are tuning in to watch the show with each new episode. Recently, showrunner and writer Mike White discussed the casting process, revealing which characters he almost overlooked and why they have become fan favourites this season. Lisa, of Blackpink, who plays Mook, is one of the beloved characters among the viewers. Despite her brief appearances, she has made quite an effect on viewers.

Lisa's role rooted in gratitude to Thailand

Since the season takes place in Lisa's home nation of Thailand, White explained to The Hollywood Reporter that he extended the opportunity to her as a gesture of appreciation for the country. Despite being charmed by her diligence and kindness, he confessed he was apprehensive to cast her at first. 

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White recalled, reflecting on his initial impression upon receiving a recording of her audition, that he had no idea who Lisa or Blackpink was. He was surprised to see a Blackpink member on The Idol, and he thought that they were not doing that. He continued, alluding to Kim Jennie, Lisa's bandmate and a former co-star on the Sam Levinson–co-created HBO series. 

Fresh start for Lisa

Since Lisa Manobal officially began her solo career in 2024 after leaving YG Entertainment and creating her own label, LLOUD, the role held great significance for her. She explained that she was looking for a fresh challenge, and this opportunity arrived at the perfect time—she has been performing in Blackpink for a long time. Lisa sent a tape back, and they sent the script.

According to White, he immediately turned down her in-person audition out of worry for his safety. But the team was adamant that she continue the audition process. Adding to this, The White Lotus executive producer and Emmy winner David Bernad said that they had requested her to meet them at an undisclosed location in Phuket for the audition. He disclosed that they had previously met another actor in Bangkok and were considering casting her instead, according to her. 

Humility and hard work won the role

Lisa, on the other hand, had so much humility and had put a lot of effort into her act. When asked what swayed their decision, he revealed that it was someone battling for the role. She nailed it in her audition. Although White acknowledged Lisa's kindness and simplicity, he was still not prepared to cast her. They don't need all the attention, and he's just used to it. He wanted to show Thailand some respect. It's like Princess Diana and Taylor Swift got together.

Tayme Thapthimthong, who portrays Gaitok in The White Lotus, discussed the cast's initial greeting to the K-pop star. He said they definitely knew of Lisa or were absolutely crazy about her, even though not everyone was familiar with her songs. As a result, they frequently said, "Heeeey, how are you?" whenever they saw her. 

Acknowledging Lisa's true impact and dedication

After some time had passed, White confessed that he had failed to recognise her true potential and had instead treated her as a mere pop star. Astonished by the amount of attention and scrutiny she receives for everything she does, he recalls seeing others on set cry from being overwhelmed by her presence in the cast. During the course of the conversation, Lisa also discussed her preparation for her Thai audition, which included taking acting classes and bringing her mum along due to her extreme nervousness.

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