K-pop superstar Lisa (real name Lalisa Manoban) made her long-anticipated acting debut in season 3 of HBO’s hit series ‘The White Lotus’, which recently aired its finale. Despite high expectations, Lisa’s screen time and role were deemed disappointingly minimal throughout the season—drawing sharp criticism from international media, with some calling it “the biggest waste of talent.”

‘The White Lotus’—a dark comedy-drama centered around the secrets and scandals unfolding at an exclusive luxury resort—has gained a massive global following. Season 3, set in Thailand, was streamed domestically via Coupang Play, with its eighth and final episode drawing a record 6.2 million viewers, the highest in the series’ history.

Lisa portrayed “Mook,” a charming resort employee who switches seamlessly between English and Thai. However, her presence never grew beyond a supporting background character.

UK outlet The Guardian slammed her limited role, saying “she had laughably little to do,” likening it to “casting Lady Gaga as an extra.” Other Western media echoed the sentiment, criticizing the writing of Mook as “a flat, underdeveloped role unworthy of an A-list K-pop star.”

This was Lisa’s first attempt at acting, and both excitement and skepticism surrounded her casting. In an earlier interview with Variety, she shared, “I’ve been a fan of ‘The White Lotus,’ and I was thrilled to be cast as Mook.” She also admitted, “I was so nervous on the first day I was sweating and forgot my lines.”

Describing her character, Lisa said, “Mook is like me, but more ladylike and flirty. I’m more of a tomboy in real life.”

Having debuted with BLACKPINK in 2016, Lisa’s participation in The White Lotus marked a bold new chapter in her career as she stepped into the acting world.

Meanwhile, BLACKPINK is set to kick off their highly anticipated ‘BLACKPINK 2025 WORLD TOUR’ with two opening shows on July 5th and 6th at Goyang Sports Complex Main Stadium in South Korea. The group is expected to reconnect with fans across the globe with expanded stages and upgraded performances.

SEE ALSO: BLACKPINK announces 2025 world tour kickoff in Goyang with historic stadium concerts