Why Mike White Nearly Passed on Blackpink's Lisa for 'The White Lotus'

Mike White, the mastermind behind HBO's 'The White Lotus,' initially had reservations about featuring Blackpink's Lisa, born as Lalisa Manobal, in the upcoming third season of the show.

White expressed his concerns in an interview with The Hollywood Reporter explaining that his lack of familiarity with Lisa and the global K-pop phenomenon, Blackpink, made him hesitant. He acknowledged that Lisa's bandmate, Jennie Kim, had featured in another high-profile series, 'The Idol,' which made him wary of casting another member of the group in his own show.

The thought of potential security issues further complicated the decision for White, who is not accustomed to the level of attention such high-profile casting might bring.

However, the show's producer, David Bernad, provided a new perspective after arranging a meeting with Lisa in a discreet location in Phuket, Thailand. Despite already having a promising actress on their radar from auditions in Bangkok, Lisa’s genuine dedication and humility caught the team’s attention.

Despite Lisa delivering an impressive audition, White remained reluctant due to her notable fame. Reflecting on Lisa’s superstar status in Thailand, he compared her to a hybrid of Taylor Swift and Princess Diana, stating that the intense spotlight wasn't what he envisioned for the show.

Blackpink has been making waves since their formation in 2016, with Lisa quickly amassing over 105 million followers on Instagram. Her fame was further cemented when she graced the cover of Vanity Fair's prestigious Hollywood Issue alongside renowned celebrities like Zendaya and Nicole Kidman.

Lisa shared her excitement and nerves about auditioning for the role in The Hollywood Reporter. As part of her preparation, she took acting lessons and embarked on the journey to Thailand, accompanied by her mother, showcasing her serious commitment to the acting endeavor.