The White Lotus Returns: Season 4 Heads to France’s Glamorous Riviera
HBO’s Hit Series Expands to European Luxury
The White Lotus, HBO’s Emmy-winning satirical drama that has captivated audiences with its exploration of wealth, privilege, and human nature, is preparing for its fourth season. Following the success of Season 3, which premiered in February 2025 and became the most-watched instalment of the series with over 6.2 million viewers for its finale, the show continues to prove its cultural relevance and popularity.
Season 4 will film at the Château de La Messardière in Saint-Tropez on the French Riviera, with production beginning at the end of April and continuing through the end of October 2026. This marks a significant departure from previous seasons, as the first three seasons were all filmed at Four Seasons properties.
The Luxurious Setting and Production Details
The Château de La Messardière is set within 32 acres of parasol pines, cypress trees and jasmine, and is part of the Airelles Collection, a group of five-star hotels. The story will unfold along the French Riviera, with some scenes also filmed at a Paris hotel. The plot remains tightly under wraps, but sources say that the Cannes Film Festival could be part of the storyline.
Creator Mike White is still in the midst of writing the anticipated fourth season, continuing his anthology approach that has explored themes of money, sex, and death in previous instalments. Casting is underway for Season 4 and a large number of French actors have auditioned for it.
New Cast Members Join the Ensemble
Both Steve Coogan and Caleb Jonte Edwards have been cast in Season 4 of The White Lotus. They join previously announced cast members Alexander Ludwig and AJ Michalka. Helena Bonham Carter has been in talks to join the fourth season, and Chris Messina has been offered a role.
As with previous seasons, the show is expected to feature both new and returning characters, with speculation about which cast member might serve as the connecting character between seasons—a tradition established when Jennifer Coolidge bridged Seasons 1 and 2.
What This Means for Viewers
The White Lotus has become a cultural phenomenon, not only for its sharp social commentary and stellar performances but also for its impact on tourism. Ko Samui, the shooting location of the third season, experienced a 65% increase in hotel bookings and reservations since its premiere. The French Riviera location is poised to benefit similarly from the show’s popularity.
HBO’s CEO has shared that the next season will likely be out in time to compete in the 2027 Emmy cycle, suggesting viewers can expect the new season to premiere sometime in 2027. As production gears up for spring 2026, anticipation continues to build for another compelling chapter in this acclaimed anthology series that has redefined prestige television.