Natasha Rothwell Discusses Emmy Nomination and The White Lotus

Natasha Rothwell returns to HBO’s The White Lotus, sharing her emotional journey and insights on her Emmy nomination.
Natasha Rothwell Returns to HBO’s The White Lotus
Natasha Rothwell eagerly accepted the opportunity to reprise her role as spa manager Belinda in Season 3 of HBO’s The White Lotus, collaborating once again with creator Mike White.
Emmy Nomination Reaction
“If he asked me to read the phone book for him, I’d do it,” Rothwell expressed about White. Her return to The White Lotus was not just a comeback; it required a nuanced, deeply emotional performance that earned her an Emmy nomination. Rothwell recalls the moment she received the news: “I burst into tears. It was just uncontrollable. I was sobbing, and the poor bellmen didn’t know what to do with me. I exclaimed, ‘I got an Emmy nomination!’
Challenges in Season 3
One of the most challenging scenes for Rothwell involved her character and her son, played by Nicholas Duvernay. “It was hard because I struggle to accept good things in real life, always waiting for the other shoe to drop. This scene reminded me to allow myself to believe in the good when it happens,” she explained.
Working with Mike White
Describing her experience with Mike White, Rothwell said, “He is one of a kind—kind and generous. Watching a true auteur in flow with his craft is incredible. I would often go to Video Village just to watch him work during Seasons 1 and 3.”
Impact of the Environment
Filming in Thailand significantly enhanced her performance. “There’s no way to manufacture emotion on a sound stage. The real jungle, the heat, and even the interruptions from elephants and cicadas added authenticity to my experience,” she noted.
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Themes of The White Lotus
Rothwell highlighted the show’s themes, particularly the idea that “wherever you go, there you are.” She emphasized how the series beautifully portrays the struggle of escaping oneself while ultimately confronting one’s true nature.
Fan Reactions
After Season 3 aired, Rothwell experienced an overwhelming response from fans, many of whom asked, “Are you going to die?” She felt fortunate to play a character that resonates with viewers, stating, “They were so glad to see me back, and I was thrilled to return as well.”
Inspiration for Acting
Rothwell’s early inspiration came from Give Me a Break, featuring Nell Carter. “As a child of the ’80s, seeing a plus-sized Black woman unapologetically owning her space inspired me to aspire to that,” Rothwell shared.