Natasha Rothwell Checks Back Into 'The White Lotus'
Feb 27, 2025
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Natasha Rothwell, an award-winning actor and writer known for her roles in HBO’s Insecure and The White Lotus, shares insights into her character Belinda's evolution in the latest season set in Thailand. She delves into themes of ambition, identity, and representation, while reflecting on her journey with body image and the reclamation of the term 'fat.' Natasha also discusses her transition from writer to performer and the complexities of navigating the acting world, blending personal struggles with the seductive qualities of her craft.
Natasha Rothwell's character Belinda in 'The White Lotus' symbolizes the struggle of service industry workers confronting unfulfilled dreams and societal invisibility.
Rothwell emphasizes the significance of Black representation in travel narratives, highlighting her commitment to authentic storytelling in mainstream media.
Deep dives
Natasha Rothwell's Diverse Role in The White Lotus
Natasha Rothwell returns as Belinda in the latest season of The White Lotus, embodying a character that juxtaposes entitlement and servitude amidst dramatic and emotional storylines. Her character navigates the complexities of being a spa manager who once aspired to open her own business, only to be hindered by the wealthy guests she serves. This season showcases Rothwell's character experiencing the guest-staff dynamic differently, as she participates in an exchange program at a Thailand resort. The depth of her character's struggle with her dreams and disappointments offers viewers insight into the challenges faced by service industry workers who often remain unseen.
The Evolution and Challenges of Creating How to Die Alone
Rothwell’s Hulu series How to Die Alone, which she created and starred in, gained critical acclaim, winning an Independent Spirit Award for Best Ensemble Cast. Despite this recognition, the show faced cancellation shortly after its premiere, sparking a conversation about the support for television led by Black stars and marginalized voices. Rothwell reflects on the challenges of having a unique and original narrative fall victim to the industry's quick decisions and metrics used for success. This experience reinforces her resolve to continue advocating for authentic representations in media, showing the continued struggle for visibility in Hollywood.
Personal Growth and Reflection in Thailand
While filming in Thailand, Rothwell had the opportunity to explore themes of mindfulness and self-reflection, as the backdrop of the country offers a unique cultural perspective. She notes that during her time there, she could not help but have a spiritual experience due to the juxtaposition of Thailand’s uncolonized history and the trauma narrative often present in American culture. This led Rothwell to appreciate the warmth and genuine spirit of acceptance she encountered, which reflects an important part of her own journey. These experiences are mirrored in her character’s growth as she seeks to advocate for her own needs and reconnect with her aspirations.
The Significance of Representation in Travel Narratives
The podcast highlights Rothwell's desire to advocate for Black representation in travel narratives, particularly in her character's experiences abroad. She recounts a personal moment where a chance encounter with another Black family while traveling reaffirmed her sense of belonging and identity. Rothwell pushed to incorporate this narrative element into The White Lotus to underscore its importance for viewers, particularly those from marginalized backgrounds. By sharing these stories, Rothwell aims to broaden the dialogue about belonging in foreign spaces, challenging traditional portrayals of travel within mainstream media.
In the new season of The White Lotus, Natasha Rothwell reprises her role of spa manager Belinda, a woman "on the precipice of change" as she straddles the line between guest and staffer. She spoke with Tonya Mosley about filming in Thailand, the cancellation of her show How to Die Alone, and getting cast as the hilarious Kelli on Insecure.
Also, we remember Oscar-winning actor Gene Hackman who died this week at age 95.