The worlds of K-Pop and premium television are set to collide as BLACKPINK’s Lisa, also known as Lalisa Manobal, is slated to appear in the highly anticipated third season of HBO’s hit anthology series “The White Lotus.” This marks a significant stride in Lisa’s career, graduating from music icon to actress in one of television’s most lauded series.
As she joins the cast of “The White Lotus,” Lisa will be credited by her given name, Lalisa Manobal, marking a new chapter in her already illustrious career. The nature of her character, along with other specifics regarding the third season’s cast, is shrouded in mystery.
The White Lotus, created by Mike White, who also serves as executive producer and director, has received critical acclaim and a multitude of awards. Its intriguing narrative follows the guests and employees of the fictional White Lotus resort chain, with each season set in a different picturesque locale. The first season took us to the sandy beaches of Hawaii, while the second whisked audiences away to the historical glamour of Sicily.
Production for the third season is set to commence in February, with Thailand’s paradisiacal regions of Koh Samui, Phuket, and Bangkok providing the scenic backdrop. The exact plot remains a well-kept secret, however, it is known that the narrative will continue the tradition of exploring the lives of new guests staying at the resort.
Joining Lisa is a dazzling ensemble that boasts prominent names such as Leslie Bibb, Jason Isaacs, Michelle Monaghan, Parker Posey, Walton Goggins, and rising stars like Aimee Lou Wood and Sam Nivola. Thai actors, including Dom Hetrakul, Tayme Thapthimthong, Lek Patravadi, bring local flair to the cast, crafting a global feel reflective of the show’s international appeal.
Lisa is following in the footsteps of fellow BLACKPINK member Jennie, who made her HBO series debut earlier in another original series called “The Idol,” which premiered in June 2023. This move signifies the increasing crossover of K-Pop talents into the global acting scene, building on their already substantial music careers.
Since their debut in August 2016 with the album “Square One,” BLACKPINK, consisting of Jisoo, Jennie, Rose, and Lisa, has taken the world by storm. They’ve achieved numerous records, including having “Boombayah” become the most-viewed debut music video by a Korean act and reaching No. 55 on the Billboard Hot 100 with “Ddu-Du Ddu-Du,” marking them as the highest-charting female K-Pop group. They’ve also collaborated with other music industry giants such as Dua Lipa, Lady Gaga, and Cardi B.
Lisa has carved out her own space within the industry, setting personal milestones with records and awards. Having recently launched her own management company, Lloud Co., she continues to show her business acumen. Her solo album “Lalisa,” released in 2021, broke sales records in South Korea, while its singles made significant impacts on global charts. In 2023, she established three Guinness World Records, further cementing her status as a K-Pop icon.
The partnership between HBO and Thailand’s Tourism Authority for the filming and promotion of the third season of “The White Lotus” is strategic, enhancing the show’s cultural and aesthetic appeal. The success of “The White Lotus” is reflected in its accolades, with the first season securing 20 Emmy nominations and 10 wins, and the second receiving 23 nominations, asserting its position as a leading force in modern television storytelling.
Lisa’s addition to the show is highly anticipated by fans across the globe, both of BLACKPINK and of high-caliber television dramas. With her acting debut, Lisa expands her creative portfolio and is poised to leave her mark on the world of acting, much like she has with her music. As the anticipation for “The White Lotus” season three builds, viewers eagerly await to see what lies in store at the next White Lotus resort and how Lisa’s role will unfold in this narrative of luxury, leisure, and lurking secrets.
