This story contains spoilers from the March 2 episode of The White Lotus.

The captivating drama of The White Lotus extends beyond its on-screen narrative, revealing intriguing behind-the-scenes moments that add layers to the storytelling experience.

During the filming of the March 2 episode of the critically acclaimed HBO satire, actor Walton Goggins encountered a significant challenge when he faced his intense fear of snakes, leading to unexpected chaos on set. This encounter not only tested his acting skills but also his personal limits. In a candid interview on March 5 during his appearance on Jimmy Kimmel Live!, Goggins shared, “I don’t just have a phobia—it’s like a missing link when it comes to snakes. There’s something, like, genetically wrong with me when it comes to snakes.” His honest reflection sheds light on the psychological aspects of performing under pressure, particularly in a high-stakes environment.

A pivotal scene features Walton’s character, Rick, who, while under the influence, releases several snakes at a snake farm, leading to a dramatic moment where one serpent bites his girlfriend, Chelsea, portrayed by Aimee Lou Wood. Although Goggins received a briefing on which reptiles were poisonous prior to the shoot, the unpredictable nature of his co-star, the snake, added another layer of complexity to the scene. He recounted, “As I was pulling the snake out, he didn’t want to come. And so the snake turns around and he bit me. I haven’t told that story to anybody.” This unexpected incident not only highlights the unpredictability of working with animals in film but also underscores the commitment actors have to their roles, often putting themselves in precarious situations for the sake of authenticity.