The White Lotus Season 3 is being criticized for its slow pace, but viewership numbers prove fans are loving it

The White Lotus Season 3 has been labeled the weakest installment of the drama by a section of the audience. Some viewers have pointed out that the dark comedy-drama lacks the right pace this season and has only been building the plot without any resolution or action.

However, the viewership numbers state otherwise, as the recently released The White Lotus Season 3, Episode 7, has garnered the highest number of views in the show’s history. The episode was watched by 4.8 million viewers across different platforms at the time of its premiere on March 30, 2025.

Interestingly, the show broke its own record in just a week, as The White Lotus Season 3, Episode 6, was previously the most-watched episode in the series, with 4.2 million views.

The numbers prove that a large section of the audience is enjoying the slow-burn nature of the new season, and the ever-changing character dynamics have made the storyline more engaging.

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The White Lotus Season 3 Episode 7 achieves the highest-ever viewership for the show

There has been a 14% increase in viewership between The White Lotus Season 3, Episodes 6 and 7, which are now the two most-watched episodes in the entire series. The show previously surpassed the 4 million mark with the second season’s finale, which received 4.1 million views.

The numbers include both the linear HBO release views and Max’s streaming views at the time of the episode’s premiere. The record-breaking success can be attributed to a shocking moment in the sixth episode, where two brothers got involved in some questionable activities, leading to widespread discussion and debate among the audience.

There is now only one more episode left in the season, which is expected to breach the 5 million mark, considering the hype around the series. Audiences are excited to watch how the various storylines conclude and are expected to be hooked to their screens for the season finale, scheduled to air on Sunday, April 6, 2025.

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How the slow pace benefited The White Lotus Season 3

Contrary to claims that The White Lotus Season 3 is taking too long to establish its storyline and characters without any payoff, the slow-burn strategy has worked well for the series.

The show has always explored the dark aspects of human nature and is known for its satire on elite life. In the third season, it has delved deeper into these themes.

By spending a fair amount of time establishing the characters and their dynamics, the creators have fostered a stronger connection with the audience. While some viewers feel there has not been much action this season, the ever-changing balance between the characters and the exploration of their psyches has made it more interesting.

From exposing the superficial friendship between Kate, Jaclyn, and Laurie to the constantly shifting power dynamics between the brothers Saxon and Lochlan, the story has evolved significantly since its inception. The higher episode count has only helped the slow-burn narrative.

With tensions rising in each episode and peaking in the penultimate one, The White Lotus season 3 episode 8 is now expected to provide a satisfying conclusion to all the story arcs, revealing the fates of the Ratliffs, Belinda, Greg, Rick, Chelsea, Gaitok, Mook, and the trio of friends, among others.

For more news and updates about The White Lotus Season 3, stay tuned to Soap Central.