Arnold Schwarzenegger’s Hilarious Reaction to Son Patrick’s Controversial ‘White Lotus’ Incest Scene

Patrick Schwarzenegger’s eye-opening role in The White Lotus Season 3 made headlines for its provocative storylines, but it was his father, Arnold Schwarzenegger, who added a dose of humor to the controversy.

In the show’s third season, Patrick played Saxon Ratliff, a privileged finance bro whose storyline pushed boundaries in typical White Lotus fashion. Among the most buzzed-about scenes was an incestuous encounter between Saxon and his on-screen brother, played by Sam Nivola. The scene, which involved a kiss and a flashback to a threesome at a Full Moon Party, quickly became a hot topic among viewers and fans of the HBO anthology series. While Patrick described filming the scenes as “fun” and credited the production team’s professionalism, audiences were divided, with some praising the show’s satirical edge and others expressing discomfort.

Arnold Schwarzenegger, however, chose a lighter approach. A known supporter of his son’s acting career, he attended the White Lotus Season 3 premiere in Los Angeles and even joked on Instagram about Patrick’s earlier nude scene, writing, “The apple doesn’t fall far from the tree.” After the incest scene aired, Arnold responded on X with a humorous gif of himself doing a double take. The playful reaction stood out amid the broader conversation, showing Arnold’s ability to keep the mood light even in the face of edgy content.

The contrast between Arnold’s public humor and Patrick’s own nervousness about his family’s response highlighted the generational shift in addressing bold artistic choices. For Patrick, the role was an opportunity to stretch his acting muscles, and for Arnold, it was a chance to support his son with characteristic wit. In an industry where controversy often dominates headlines, Arnold’s reaction served as a reminder that even the most provocative scenes can be met with a smile and a clever gif.