This article contains significant spoilers from The White Lotus season three, episode seven, titled “Killer Instincts.” In this compelling episode, viewers witness Rick Hatchett, portrayed by Walton Goggins, finally embracing relaxation during his vacation in Thailand. This moment, however, comes after a long and tumultuous journey, both for the character and the actor. Goggins reflects on the experience, revealing that the culmination of his character’s arc was filmed towards the end of the Thailand shoot, and the relief he expresses is both personal and character-driven.
“It took me six months and seven hours of this experience to smile, to really smile,” Goggins shared with The Hollywood Reporter regarding the penultimate episode of season three. He emphasizes that while his smile isn’t purely one of joy, it signifies a moment of contentment and peace. Goggins has been candid about the challenges he faced during the filming of The White Lotus, indicating that Rick’s darker motivations were not fully unveiled until the fourth episode. “It takes until episode four for the audience to really understand the motivations for this guy, where everybody else’s motivations are pretty clear in episode one,” he explains.
Rick’s motivations are deeply rooted in revenge. In the fourth episode, he reveals to his girlfriend Chelsea, played by Aimee Lou Wood, that his father was killed by a developer in Thailand, a man who coincidentally owns the White Lotus resort where Rick is staying. This backstory adds depth to Rick’s character, highlighting his struggle with loss and desire for vengeance. However, it becomes evident that Rick’s confrontation with Jim, portrayed by newcomer Scott Glenn, does not end in violence, but rather a moment of introspection and understanding.
Goggins describes the pivotal moment between Rick and Jim, stating, “I read all the scripts and I knew what it would take in order to get to that moment, it was all building towards that.” The emotional confrontation is marked not by aggression but by a simple act of turning over a desk chair—symbolizing a truce rather than a vendetta. “Rick’s just a lost boy, isn’t he? He’s just looking for answers as much as he’s looking for revenge,” he elaborates. This moment of clarity signifies the end of Rick’s obsession with vengeance, as he finally sees Jim for who he truly is, stripping away the power this man once held over him.
True to the indulgent nature of The White Lotus, the episode transitions from the poignant revelation to a raucous Bangkok bender, showcasing Sam Rockwell’s character, Frank, who relapses spectacularly just two episodes after discussing his path to sobriety. Amidst the chaos, it is Rick who appears to find genuine happiness, a contrast to the typical turmoil of the series. Goggins expresses, “As an actor, all of a sudden, 10,000 pounds lifted off of my shoulders.” His friendship with Rockwell off-camera only enriches this shared experience, making it one of the most memorable moments of his career.
In summary, episode seven of The White Lotus season three provides a rich exploration of Rick Hatchett’s character, revealing his complexities and ultimate transformation. Walton Goggins’ performance encapsulates the essence of a man seeking peace after a long journey of obsession and revenge. This episode not only highlights the intricate storytelling that The White Lotus is known for but also reinforces the emotional depth that can be found within its characters. As viewers eagerly anticipate the culmination of this season, Rick’s journey serves as a poignant reminder of the struggles and triumphs that define us.
