Jason Isaacs, known for his role in The White Lotus, recently shared in an exclusive interview that he feels like a ‘surrogate father’ to his co-star Patrick Schwarzenegger. The interview took place during PEOPLE and Entertainment Weekly’s Red Carpet Live show before the Emmy Awards 2025. Isaacs expressed his deep connection to Schwarzenegger and other onscreen children, Sam Nivola and Sarah Catherine Hook, whom he described as his ‘fake kids’ from the show.
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Isaacs, aged 62, opened up about his emotional attachment to his onscreen family, recalling a heartwarming moment when his real daughters visited the set. He humorously shared how he inadvertently referred to his co-stars as ‘the kids’ in front of his actual children, highlighting the strong bond formed during the filming of The White Lotus. The show, set in Thailand, follows a family’s journey filled with drama and danger at a luxurious resort.
The third season of The White Lotus garnered significant acclaim, receiving nine Emmy nominations. Isaacs himself received a nomination for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series, emphasizing the show’s overall success. The cast, including Parker Posey, Patrick Schwarzenegger, Sarah Catherine Hook, and Sam Nivola, portrayed a North Carolina family navigating intricate storylines throughout the season, leading to a compelling narrative loved by audiences.
Schwarzenegger’s recent wedding to model Abby Champion brought the onscreen family back together, with Isaacs, Nivola, and Hook joining in the celebration. The star-studded event also saw the presence of renowned personalities like Rob Lowe, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Maria Shriver, and Chris Pratt, creating a memorable reunion for the cast. Isaacs expressed his joy at the ensemble coming together, highlighting the camaraderie among the White Lotus actors.
Reflecting on the Emmy Awards ceremony, Isaacs shared his admiration for the cast’s performances, praising their dedication and talent showcased on the show. Despite logistical challenges and scheduling conflicts, the bond among the cast members remained strong, with Isaacs mentioning the absence of some due to prior commitments. He commended the entire team for their exceptional work, creating a cohesive and engaging series that resonated with audiences worldwide.
Isaacs’ touching portrayal of a father figure both on and off the screen exemplifies the deep connections forged through collaborative storytelling. His experience as a ‘surrogate father’ to his onscreen children underscores the powerful impact of acting and storytelling in creating meaningful relationships. As The White Lotus continues to captivate audiences with its compelling narrative, Isaacs’ heartfelt sentiments towards his co-stars further illuminate the emotional depth behind the scenes.