Editor’s Note: The following contains spoilers for The White Lotus Season 3 finale. It would be an understatement to say that The White Lotus thrives on showcasing morally ambiguous and outright toxic characters. This theme is central to the series, particularly regarding unlikable male characters. Mike White‘s quasi-anthological drama has introduced at least one each season, with characters like Cameron ( Theo James ) and Shane ( Jake Lacy ) being the most despised in previous seasons. In this season, that role is filled by Saxon Ratliff ( Patrick Schwarzenegger ). Initially, he appears to be the epitome of toxic masculinity, making claims about women being a “numbers game” and harassing others at the pool, yet he has emerged as one of the most polarizing characters.

Some viewers may find his flaws insurmountable, while others might see a chance for redemption. However, many seem to misinterpret the moment in the finale where he watches Chelsea (Aimee Lou-Wood) walk away with Rick (Walton Goggins) on the beach, appearing genuinely distressed. This moment conveys a deeper sadness than merely losing a romantic interest.

Chelsea and Saxon Are Meant To Be Friends, Not Lovers, by the End of ‘The White Lotus’ Season 3

It’s easy to misinterpret Chelsea as Saxon’s romantic partner, but this overlooks his significant character development throughout the season. In the previous episode, ” Killer Instincts,” Chelsea seemed to cut their spiritual session short to avoid intimacy with Saxon, and yes, he did take her hands. Yet, this moment is not about Chelsea leaving Rick, who was ignoring her calls to party with Sam Rockwell‘s character in Bangkok; rather, it tests Chelsea’s patience and trust in Rick’s judgment.

Saxon’s attempt to hold Chelsea’s hand contrasts sharply with his earlier interactions, particularly when he harassed other women. For instance, during a massage, he expressed disappointment at not receiving a “happy ending,” showing little regard for the woman involved. However, following the trauma he endured from Lochlan ( Sam Nivola )‘s sexual assault in Episode 6, ” Denials,” his simple desire to hold hands reflects a need for comfort, and he respects Chelsea’s boundaries when she asks him to stop.

In the finale, as Rick and Chelsea walk away together, Saxon’s gaze is not fixated on Chelsea alone. The camera captures the scene from his perspective, highlighting a pure connection rather than a sexualized notion of love that feels increasingly distant from him. In this moment, he seems to realize he has lost the one person who encouraged him to improve, leaving him to ponder if he will ever find that again, or experience what Rick and Chelsea share.

All Hope Is Not Lost for Saxon in ‘The White Lotus’

Before and after Rick appears in that beach scene, Saxon demonstrates his growth this season. He shows genuine interest in the self-help books Chelsea has provided him, a stark contrast to his earlier dismissive attitude. His near completion of a book overnight indicates a newfound curiosity about self-improvement.

A notable progression occurs when he acknowledges that the “sex stuff was interesting” in the book. While there may have been more substantial content, this marks his first engagement with spiritual literature without ridicule. He interacts with the material in a way that resonates with him, signaling the beginning of a deeper introspection regarding his insecurities. His disdain for Chloe ( Charlotte Le Bon ), who claims it will be easy to find another sexual partner, illustrates a significant shift in his perspective; he now finds her hedonism unimpressive, a far cry from the Saxon who first arrived at The White Lotus.

Saxon’s Character Arc Gives Hope for the Character’s Future After ‘The White Lotus’

One of the season’s biggest letdowns was not witnessing the Ratliffs’ reaction to the news of Tim (Jason Isaacs)‘s investigation, which threatens their wealth. While Victoria ( Parker Posey ) and Piper ( Sarah Catherine Hook ) are likely to be hit hardest, Saxon’s response remains uncertain. His remark to his father about being “nothing without success and money” reveals his profound insecurities, explaining why Tim almost poisoned him along with his mother and sister.

However, it is reasonable to conclude that Saxon is embarking on a new chapter in his life, and his reaction may be more complex. Chelsea has encouraged him to present himself with more confidence and hopefully steer him toward a better path. Ultimately, the question remains: can he change? If the answer is no, one might interpret the scene with Saxon, Chelsea, and Rick as merely reflecting his loss of a romantic partner. If the answer is yes, then it suggests he is on a potential path to enlightenment, grieving the loss of a mentor, yet needing to forge his own way.

All episodes of Season 3 of The White Lotus are available to stream on Max in the U.S.

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