How the Hollywood Scion Redefines the Role of the Modern Elite in HBO’s Most Talked-About Show
In HBO’s The White Lotus Season 3, where wealth, decadence, and moral ambiguity intertwine, Patrick Schwarzenegger delivers a career-defining performance as Saxon Ratliff—a cocky finance bro whose world of privilege begins to unravel. Set against the backdrop of Thailand’s opulent resorts and exclusive yacht parties, The White Lotus peels back the layers of high society, revealing the chaos beneath the surface.
Schwarzenegger, a member of Hollywood and political royalty, steps into this role with unsettling ease. But as The White Lotus has proven time and time again, in paradise, nothing is ever as it seems.
The Making of Saxon Ratliff: A Role Steeped in Wealth and Complexity
For Schwarzenegger, portraying Saxon—a privileged, ultra-confident hedge fund heir—should have been effortless. Yet, series creator Mike White often had one recurring directive:
“Patrick, be richer.”
The role demanded more than just portraying excess—it required embodying the deep-seated entitlement and subtle insecurities of the ultra-wealthy. As the eldest son of a high-net-worth North Carolina family, Saxon Ratliff struts through the season as if he owns the world. His confidence is intoxicating, his vices unapologetic. Yet, beneath his carefully curated persona lies a man grappling with his identity, privilege, and ultimately, his own unraveling.
A Scene That Shook the Internet: Saxon and Lochlan’s Shocking Kiss
By Episode 5, The White Lotus takes a provocative turn when Saxon and his younger brother Lochlan (played by Sam Nivola) share an unexpected kiss. It’s a scene that has ignited heated debates across social media:
- Was it driven by drugs and alcohol?
- A power play orchestrated by the women in the scene?
- Or a moment that shattered Saxon’s self-image?
Schwarzenegger remains elusive about its deeper meaning, teasing only:
“You enter the White Lotus as one person and leave as another.”
It’s this transformation—from a man who believes he is untouchable to someone questioning everything—that makes Saxon one of the most compelling characters of the season.
Luxury, Decadence, and the Price of Privilege
From Greg’s ultra-exclusive yacht to the wild Full Moon Party in Thailand, The White Lotus seduces its audience with a glimpse into the excesses of the elite—only to reveal their inevitable downfall.
For Schwarzenegger, who grew up surrounded by wealth and fame, stepping into this world was second nature. His performance blurs the line between authenticity and satire, making Saxon’s descent into chaos all the more enthralling.
Patrick Schwarzenegger Joins Forces with Kim Kardashian’s SKIMS
Beyond his standout performance in The White Lotus, Schwarzenegger is also making waves in the fashion world. Recently, he and his fiancé, model Abby Champion, starred in Kim Kardashian’s latest SKIMS campaign for the brand’s 2025 Wedding Shop.
Also read: Kim Kardashian’s Priceless Gift to Daughter North: The Iconic $1.7 Billion Family Heirloom
The campaign, which exudes sophistication and sensuality, features the couple in a series of striking images—Schwarzenegger shirtless, holding a bouquet of white flowers, while Champion stuns in delicate white lingerie. It’s a celebration of romance, luxury, and exclusivity, perfectly aligning with Schwarzenegger’s image as Hollywood’s next leading man.
Kim Kardashian, the mastermind behind SKIMS, praised the couple’s chemistry, stating:
“Patrick and Abby’s love is so beautiful, and it shows in every shot.”
This high-profile collaboration not only cements Schwarzenegger’s status as an emerging fashion icon but also places him in the same league as A-list celebrities who dominate both Hollywood and high-end branding.
Patrick Schwarzenegger: A Star on the Rise
While his last name may have opened doors, Patrick Schwarzenegger is proving that he’s more than just Hollywood royalty. His portrayal of Saxon Ratliff cements his status as a serious actor capable of depth and complexity.
As The White Lotus continues to dominate the cultural conversation, one thing is certain: Schwarzenegger’s time in the spotlight is just beginning.