This article contains significant spoilers from the finale of The White Lotus season three, titled “Amor Fati.” The creator of the series, Mike White, had a clear vision for the season's conclusion long before the story unfolded. In an interview on The White Lotus Official Podcast, he revealed, “The ending was kinda the first thing I really thought of — Belinda leaving with money and leaving somebody in the same way she got left in the first season.” This striking finale not only wrapped up the season but also brought a sense of closure to the character of Belinda, portrayed by Natasha Rothwell.
The finale of season three, which ran for an extended 90 minutes, saw Belinda’s character come full circle, drawing parallels to Tanya, the beloved character originally played by Jennifer Coolidge, who tragically met her end in the second season. However, some fans are left wondering if Belinda embodies elements of both Tanya and her ex-husband Greg, portrayed by Jon Gries. In a separate interview, Rothwell responded, “Maybe she’s a little bit of both,” hinting at the complex nature of her character’s development.
In a dramatic twist, Greg offers Belinda $5 million in exchange for her and her son Zion's (played by Nicholas Duvernay) silence regarding the suspicious death of his late wife. This transaction marks a pivotal moment for Belinda, who previously formed a close bond with Tanya during her time at the White Lotus: Hawaii. Their friendship was rooted in shared aspirations, as they planned to start a business together—an idea that tragically fell apart following Tanya’s dramatic demise in Italy.
As the season wraps up in Thailand, Belinda ultimately chooses to abandon her plans with Pornchai (played by Dom Hetrakul), echoing Tanya’s earlier decisions. Rothwell notes that this moment is “heartbreaking,” as Belinda leaves with a significant financial gain but also a heavy heart. She explains, “I think there’s more grief on Belinda’s part than perhaps Tanya’s part.” Unlike Tanya, who seemed to move on without a second thought, Belinda grapples with her choices, leading her to contemplate her identity outside of work and relationships.
One of the most poignant lines from the finale comes when Belinda asks her son, “Can’t I just be rich for five minutes?” This line reflects her desire to enjoy a brief moment of financial freedom without the obligations that typically accompany it. Rothwell shared her connection to Belinda’s plight, noting the character’s “never-ending dread” about money, which resonates with many viewers.
Mike White acknowledged the mixed reactions to Belinda’s fate in the first season, where she was left in a disheartening position. He aimed to provide a more uplifting conclusion this time around, exploring what true freedom means for someone who has struggled financially. He commented on the complexity of virtue when one is burdened by financial constraints, suggesting that Belinda’s newfound wealth allows her to explore her identity without the weight of obligations.
Looking ahead, White envisions a potential future for Belinda that echoes themes of self-discovery and empowerment. Rothwell expressed her hopes for her character, suggesting that Belinda might venture into a new life, possibly distancing herself from Greg’s influence. She mused, “Maybe she’ll go by her middle name,” hinting at a fresh start as she navigates her new reality.
Both Rothwell and Gries have expressed interest in returning for a potential fourth season of The White Lotus. Rothwell stated, “Selfishly, I wanna come back,” while Gries acknowledged the unpredictable nature of White’s storytelling, leaving fans eager for any updates regarding their potential return.
Ultimately, Rothwell views Belinda as a relatable conduit for the audience within the chaotic world of The White Lotus. She describes Belinda’s authentic reactions to her circumstances, stating, “She’s trying to stay alive and she’s gripping her purse like she’s a nanny on a bus.” This genuineness adds depth to the character and allows viewers to connect with her journey on a personal level, making her one of the most memorable characters in the series.
