The White Lotus is known for acing the blend of two different genres. One is dark comedy and the other is social commentary. Stories have been told before in these genres and many have excelled in blending both well. However, what this HBO show does is unique, taking this blend to new heights.
In Season 2 of this acclaimed show, we are taken to the picturesque backdrop of Sicily. A fresh ensemble cast is introduced and a few familiar faces are brought back too. The storylines explore the themes of power, betrayal, and the complexities of human relationships. The show's unique satirical tone makes these themes stand out even more.
The characters in this season are layered and intriguing, just like it was in The White Lotus Season 1. We have Tanya, portrayed by Jennifer Coolidge, and Greg, played by Jon Gries, amongst the others. Each character brings their own unique touch to the narrative.
Season 2 explores the darker sides of luxury and privilege. The idyllic setting is set in a way that it contrasts with the moral compromises and secrets the characters hold. The line between friend and foe blurs in this one. Trust, deception, and consequences mark this season.
The White Lotus: Season 2 cast on their characters
Greg and Tanya's relationship is one of the most intriguing in The White Lotus. Their journey began in Season 1, where they met at the Maui resort. Greg, initially introduced as a charming and bit of a mysterious guest, soon became a significant part of Tanya's life. Their connection seemed genuine. Though Greg's constant coughing gave us health scares.
By Season 2, Greg and Tanya are married and have arrived at the Sicilian resort. However, their relationship appears strained. Tanya's suspicions about Greg's fidelity grow as she notices his distant behavior and secret phone calls. Soon, it becomes evident that Greg's intentions may not be as pure as they seemed. Tanya's paranoia leads her to discover harsh truths about Greg.
Now, many would say that Greg is probably the most dangerous character in the show. But have you wondered who might be the nicest? Well, Jennifer Coolidge, who plays Tanya McQuoid, and Jon Gries, who plays Greg Hunt share in an interview with Rotten Tomatoes TV who they think is the nicest.
Jon Gries says:
"Alby is the sweetest boy. He's a sweetheart."
Jennifer Coolidge agrees. She also shares about the time she went to Africa and had to share tents with Mike White, that ultimately led to the birth of the character of Tanya in The White Lotus:
"Mike White was a very good sport because, I mean, I don’t think he thought it through, that he would be that close to me in the tent. Like, he would literally have to, you know, listen to my breathing and stuff. And then, of course, I have insomnia, so he would keep waking up and I’d be alive next to him, you know what I mean? I think that was probably scary. But we both love animals, which is why he invited me. And, I guess, you know, we had a great time. I think he also saw that I was kind of weird, and I think he thought it was funny, my fear of snakes, and also that I don’t go to bed, that I don’t sleep. I think he found that weird. He just took every weird thing about me and turned it into Tanya or something like that, a more extreme version. If I were Tanya, I would never date again. I wouldn’t be able to date anybody. But he saw something weird going on and he wrote it."
Will Sharpe and Aubrey Plaza also share about the couple, Ethan and Harper's relationship background in The White Lotus. Aubrey says:
"Well, one thing we decided was just how long they’ve been together. So, we talked about seven or eight years, they’ve been married. That was important to establish because, you know, when you’ve been married for a long time, your relationship has different issues than if you’re newlyweds. So, that was one thing."
The White Lotus not only gives us drama and tension but also shows the heart behind the characters. Hearing Jon Gries and Jennifer Coolidge talk about the nicest character and the story behind Tanya makes you appreciate how much thought and care went into every detail. The White Lotus shows how real life experiences, and creative ideas combine to bring these characters to life in entertaining and memorable ways.
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