Woody Harrelson opens up about dropping out of 'The White Lotus' Season 3 after signing on initially

Woody Harrelson speaks on why he walked away from 'The White Lotus' Season 3 after signing on for a major role.

Woody Harrelson has addressed his unexpected exit from The White Lotus Season 3, revealing the real reason behind his decision to drop out after having already signed on for a key role.

Rumours initially swirled that Harrelson walked due to salary issues following reports he had attempted to negotiate a higher rate directly with Warner Bros. CEO David Zaslav. However, according to Harrelson’s team, “It’s not about money.”

The Daily Beast confirmed that Harrelson had been approached for two roles. He was first considered for Rick Hatchett, now portrayed by Walton Goggins, but ultimately signed on to play Frank, the character later taken on by Sam Rockwell.

“I was set to do White Lotus and very excited,” Harrelson explained in a statement. “Unfortunately, their production schedule shifted, and conflicted with a pre-planned family vacation, forcing me to make an extremely hard decision.”

His representatives added, “Because they moved the date, he was no longer available so they recast. That part was the Sam part.”

Harrelson also gave kudos to Rockwell’s performance: “Things must be meant to be though, because I couldn’t have done as fantastic a job as Sam, who is killing it.”

Producer David Bernad revealed Rockwell himself was unsure at first due to time constraints but eventually agreed to step in. “We just didn’t let him pass,” Bernad said.

Harrelson’s candid explanation now clears the air, shedding light on a behind-the-scenes switch that could have drastically changed the dynamic of the third season.