HBO’s award-winning anthology series The White Lotus is packing its bags for France in its highly anticipated fourth season. Multiple outlets have confirmed that the new installment will be filmed at the opulent Château de la Messardière in Saint-Tropez — a location as breathtaking as it is expensive.
The decision comes two months after HBO revealed that season 4 would be set somewhere in France. Now, the show’s creator, Mike White, has locked in the sumptuous 19th-century palace, which was transformed into a five-star luxury hotel in the 1920s. The property is part of the prestigious Airelles Collection, owned by Stéphane Courbit, who also heads Banijay Group — the production company behind global hits like Survivor.
Perched slightly inland from the French Riviera, Château de la Messardière offers guests high-end spa treatments, multiple fine dining options, and exclusive access to a private beach. But luxury comes at a steep price: rooms during the April-to-October open season range from roughly $1,300 per night at the start of the season to a jaw-dropping $12,000 per night in peak summer.
While HBO remains tight-lipped about plot details, some casting news has emerged. The Hunger Games alum Alexander Ludwig and singer-actress AJ Michalka — best known as half of the pop duo Aly & AJ — have officially joined the roster. Whether their characters will showcase musical talents remains to be seen.
Not all familiar faces will return, however. Fan favorite Jennifer Coolidge’s Tanya McQuoid met an operatic end in season 2, and White has confirmed she won’t be back except perhaps in flashback form. Parker Posey, who appeared in season 3, has also hinted she won’t be returning.
Behind the scenes, the production hasn’t been without controversy. Cristóbal Tapia de Veer, the Emmy-winning composer responsible for the show’s iconic theme music, has exited the series, citing creative differences with White. The departure has sparked public remarks from both sides, with White calling the public airing of grievances “a bit much” during an appearance on The Howard Stern Show.
Despite the drama, anticipation for season 4 is sky-high. Filming is expected to begin in 2026, but the French Riviera’s glamorous backdrop and The White Lotus’s signature blend of dark humor, social satire, and mystery promise another unforgettable chapter in the series.
Whether viewers are drawn to the intrigue, the elite guests, or simply the stunning Saint-Tropez scenery, one thing’s certain — season 4 is set to be HBO’s next must-watch event.
