Full Breakdown
“The White Lotus” Season 4 to Film at Cannes, Centering Hôtel Martinez
5/16/2026, 3:24:46 AM
Core Event: Production Plans for “The White Lotus” at Cannes
Season 4 of HBO’s satirical series *The White Lotus* will be set during the 79th Cannes Film Festival, using the iconic Hôtel Martinez on the Croisette as the fictional “White Lotus Cannes.” Production began on the French Riviera in early May, yet four days into the festival no crew has been seen in Cannes. The festival runs May 10-23, 2026.
Key Figures & Groups
Creator Mike White and producer David Bernad lead the HBO project. Hôtel Martinez, a Hyatt-owned property opened in 1929, is called by GM Michel Cottray “the biggest player in town in terms of the number of rooms.” The hotel will host interior shoots across multiple floors, with some sold out to the production. Cast members already in Cannes include Vincent Cassel for the *Parallel Tales* premiere and Laura Dern promoting *Dernsie*.
Official Statements & Responses
Bernad said the Cannes experience was “intoxicating” and that Season 4 will focus on “people’s stories, them navigating Cannes, and the ups and downs of the festival.” Cottray highlighted the hotel’s long-standing partnership, noting the venue is “fully engaged” and staff are “gearing up to the shooting,” expecting filming “in a couple of months” and preparing for “unexpected issues.”
Criticism & Opposition
HBO and Cannes officials declined to comment on production details, underscoring the festival’s priority to keep public attention on its official film selections rather than ancillary filming.
On-the-Ground Reports
While the *White Lotus* crew remains absent, cast members such as Vincent Cassel and Laura Dern are attending Cannes events for other projects, illustrating the festival’s draw for international talent.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Sources confirm Riviera filming has started, yet no *White Lotus* cameras have been spotted in Cannes. The precise start date for interior shoots at the Hôtel Martinez remains unspecified, and HBO has not released an official schedule.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We went to dinner and we had a really specific experience with a waiter and a maître d’, and it was the stereotype. It was a very funny moment,” — David Bernad, producer, *The White Lotus*
- “The energy around it was so intoxicating and this season will have elements of that,” — David Bernad, producer
- “We are the biggest player in town in terms of the number of rooms,” — Michel Cottray, general manager, Hôtel Martinez
- “I think it will be in a couple months’ time and then it will be a big experience for all of us.” — Michel Cottray, general manager
What’s Next
Interior filming at the Hôtel Martinez is slated to begin in the coming weeks, occupying several floors. The Cannes Film Festival ends May 23, after which the hotel will shift from festival service to full-scale production. Observers will monitor how the series’ depiction of Cannes affects the hotel’s brand and the festival’s image.
