Patrick Schwarzenegger Recalls Hiding “White Lotus” Audition from His Family Before Landing Role: ‘The Greatest Day’ (Exclusive)

Patrick Schwarzenegger has recently opened up about the process of auditioning for and landing a role in the hit series “The White Lotus.” The 31-year-old actor shared exclusive details with PEOPLE about keeping his audition a secret from his famous family and the excitement of securing the role.

Schwarzenegger revealed that despite being a fan of the show along with his family, it was his mother, Maria Shriver, who encouraged him to audition for the series. He recounted how Shriver and his sister were adamant about him trying out for the show after watching previous seasons together. This led to Schwarzenegger eventually receiving an email to audition for the third season of the show.

Despite his excitement, Schwarzenegger decided to keep the audition a secret, even from his family. He didn’t want to raise their hopes in case he didn’t make it past the initial audition stage. However, he soon found himself landing the role of Saxon after an intense audition process. The actor described the experience as unique, as he had to quickly prepare for the audition while flying back from Milan.

After waiting anxiously for months, Schwarzenegger finally received the callback for a chemistry read and screen test. He confessed that the waiting period was nerve-wracking, and he couldn’t fully enjoy the holidays due to the stress. Despite trying to keep it a secret, his family noticed his strange behavior during this time.

When Schwarzenegger finally secured the role, he shared the news with his fiancée and a small group of loved ones. The emotional moment led to tears of joy, with his family celebrating the exciting milestone. As the premiere date of the new season approaches, Schwarzenegger expressed his enthusiasm for viewers to see the latest installment of “The White Lotus.”

Acknowledging the pressure to deliver on the show’s success, Schwarzenegger credited the show’s creator, Mike White, for his guidance and specific vision. He highlighted White’s involvement in various aspects of the show, from writing to directing, which reassured him of the show’s quality. Schwarzenegger’s behind-the-scenes anecdotes provide a glimpse into the dedication and hard work required in the competitive entertainment industry.

As fans eagerly anticipate the upcoming season, Schwarzenegger’s journey from a secretive audition process to landing a significant role serves as a testament to his dedication and talent in the world of television. With his portrayal of Saxon set to captivate audiences, Schwarzenegger’s story offers a glimpse into the exciting and challenging world of acting.