Rick Hatchett (portrayed by Walton Goggins) has been moping his way through this season of *The White Lotus*, stifling his girlfriend Chelsea’s (Aimee Lou Wood) excitement for their holiday. His gloom escalates when he suddenly announces a solo journey to Bangkok, leaving Chelsea — and viewers — questioning his true intentions.

Nevertheless, following the events of *The White Lotus* Season 3, Episode 4, we gain a clearer understanding of why Rick selected Thailand as their vacation spot. It appears this trip is not solely about an opulent escape—Rick has a significantly deeper, more personal agenda.

### What Transpires in *The White Lotus* Season 3, Episode 4?

Amid a lavish yacht trip, Chelsea reaches her limit with Rick’s somber demeanor and secrecy. She confronts him, demanding transparency, making it clear that if he doesn’t share, she’s finished. When Rick inquires about what she wants to know, she gets straight to the point: “Why are we here? What’s in Bangkok?”

After some reluctance, Rick ultimately discloses: “We’re here because the fuckin’ guy who killed my father owns this hotel.”

### What Do We Know About Rick’s Father’s Murder?

Rick first discloses information regarding his father’s demise during a stress management session with spiritual advisor Dr. Amrita (Shalini Peiris) in Episode 2. He shares that his father was murdered before his birth, a tragedy that has profoundly influenced his life and dubious decisions.

In Episode 4, Rick tells Chelsea that his father was a “do-gooder” who traveled to Thailand to assist locals in fighting against a corrupt American intent on seizing their land. One day, his father vanished without a trace, and his remains were never located.

Rick’s mother, who passed away from a drug overdose when he was 10, revealed the name of his father’s murderer on her deathbed: Jim Hollinger.

### Who Is Jim Hollinger?

Upon arriving at the White Lotus, Rick has been engrossed with the hotel’s glamorous owner, Sritala (Lek Patravadi), a renowned singer and wellness expert. His disappointment regarding her husband’s absence has been apparent.

In Episode 1, Mook (Lisa / Lalisa Manobal) verifies that the hotel is owned by Sritala and her American spouse, Jim Hollinger—the very name Rick has been burdened with since childhood. Rick had read about Hollinger being hospitalized on the island, but by the time he arrived, Hollinger had already departed for Bangkok.

What we do know is that Hollinger is a formidable American businessman with extensive interests in Thailand, including the White Lotus resort. But did he truly kill Rick’s father to safeguard his land acquisitions? Or is there more to uncover?

### What Is Rick Planning in Bangkok?

Chelsea bluntly questions Rick if this is a *Princess Bride*-type vengeance mission: “You killed my father, prepare to die?”

Given Rick’s erratic behavior—he did, after all, unleash a swarm of venomous snakes while under the influence—his objectives in Bangkok are unclear. Chelsea pleads with him not to act recklessly, but Rick asserts he merely wants to confront his father’s killer. Yet, his words imply he may be pursuing more than just resolution.

“The guy ruined my life from the beginning. He doesn’t need to answer to me?” Rick queries.

Chelsea, visibly anxious, replies, “You’re not just going to talk to him, are you? I know you, Rick. This is what you do.” Her remarks suggest Rick’s potentially violent or criminal history. In Episode 1, he mentions that he “can’t go to Australia,” implying he’s sought there, although specifics remain unclear.

### What’s Next for Rick?

A pivotal moment in Episode 3 may hint at Rick’s forthcoming actions. During breakfast, he introduces himself to Sritala under the guise of a producer, obtaining her business card. He even sets up a fictitious meeting with a director in Bangkok, where she’s bound to reunite with her spouse. Could this be part of Rick’s scheme?

The lingering question is: What will Rick do when he finally confronts Jim Hollinger? Chelsea previously informed him he’s a “victim of his own decisions.” Will he once again validate her assessment?

*The White Lotus* is currently streaming on Max, with new episodes airing Sundays at 9 p.m. ET on HBO.