Sam Nivola Discusses Lochlan’s Sexuality Following ‘White Lotus’ Episode 6’s Saucy Scenes

Actor Sam Nivola provided HBO’s perspective on the complex sexuality of his character, Rochlan Ratliff White lotus Following a series of sexually charged scenes that sparked online debate.

The third season of the show attracts particular attention for his interactions with Rochlan with his brother Saxon, played by Patrick Schwarzenegger. The drunken kiss in a previous episode escalated to the scene from Episode 6, where Rochlan simultaneously engages in sexual activity with Chloe, another character portrayed by Charlotte Le Bon.

These scenes led viewers to question Rochlan’s sexual orientation. Although Saxon is portrayed as a traditional heterosexual, Rochlan’s actions suggest a more fluid or confused understanding of his own sexuality.

I’ll talk VarietyNibola tackled speculation, saying that series creator Mike White “doesn’t see the world through the lens of gender.” Nibola suggested that White’s portrayal of the character transcends traditional gender and sexual categories, focusing instead on sharing human flaws and desires.

“The point he always does is that people are all the same. He interpreted the dynamics of his siblings that were intensely reflective of their shared lifestyles rather than a specific quest for gender or sexuality.

Nibola characterized Rochlan as driven by a desire for “love and attention.” He suggested that Rochlan is still exploring his charm, and that the potential discovery of same-sex charm is complicated by the “rich and conservative South” family background of his character.

Nibola admitted his initial fears about the explicit scene with his brother, but praised White’s “serene” presence on set. He reveals that Lochlan’s actions are driven by sexual attraction to Saxon, rather by a sense of anxiety and a desire to understand and connect with his siblings.

“It’s more curious and I’m trying to figure out what kind of person he’ll be,” explained Nibola. He described Rochlan as “pleasing people” who seek recognition and connection through every possible means.

Photo: Fabio Lovino/HBO

Nibola emphasized that Lochlan’s Saxon observations were not sexual, but rather an attempt to “study” him and understand how to gain his affection.

“The White Lotus” season 3 continues on HBO, with new episodes airing Sunday.