Patrick Schwarzenegger regrets character's survival in The White Lotus finale

In the recent finale of the HBO series 'The White Lotus,' which aired a few months ago, Patrick Schwarzenegger expressed his emotional struggle regarding the fate of his character, Saxon. The series, set in a luxurious resort, showcased Saxon as a privileged young man who initially garnered strong negative reactions from viewers. Patrick revealed that he felt a deep sense of guilt about Saxon's survival after an intense climax where his co-star Aimee Lou Wood's character, Chelsea, faced a tragic end. During a candid discussion, he articulated a desire for a different conclusion, stating, 'I wish I took the bullet for you,' showcasing the profound connection he felt to the storyline and the cast members. As the series progressed, Schwazenegger’s character experienced a significant transformation, shifting from a disliked character into someone more contemplative. Initially, Saxon was portrayed as a wealthy and entitled young man, embodying traits that drew strong criticism from fans. However, by the season's conclusion, Patrick noted that Saxon had evolved into a more reflective individual, which altered viewers' perceptions drastically. During the early episodes, Patrick recalled encountering hostile reactions on the streets of New York, with audiences openly expressing their disdain for Saxon. Yet, as the series aired, this sentiment shifted. The journey to acceptance of Saxon was evident not only in viewer reactions but also in Patrick's personal experiences. He shared anecdotes where he would be approached by fans in the Financial District, initially confronted with animosity but later receiving compliments as his character's depth was revealed. Additionally, the transformation of Saxon sparked significant discussions among the audience, leading to different reactions based on the character's development. Patrick noted that the initial audience cohort, which included finance professionals, quickly distanced themselves from him after a pivotal scene in Episode 5 where Saxon’s internal conflicts came to light. While reflecting on the emotional weight of the storyline, Patrick also touched on how the character arc played out for him in his personal life, especially regarding his fiancée’s reactions to the on-screen drama. Their conversations often revolved around the relationship dynamics depicted, with her expressing surprise and disappointment upon discovering the nature of Saxon’s relationships in the storyline. With the conclusion of 'The White Lotus,' Patrick is now focusing on new projects and exploring production opportunities, marking an exciting chapter in his acting career.