Killer Instincts

"Killer Instincts"
The White Lotus episode
Episode no.Season 3
Episode 7
Directed byMike White
Written byMike White
Cinematography byBen Kutchins
Editing byJohn M. Valerio
Original air dateMarch 30, 2025 (2025-03-30)
Running time59 minutes
Guest appearances

"Killer Instincts" is the seventh episode of the third season of the American black comedy drama anthology television series The White Lotus. It is the 20th overall episode of the series and was written and directed by series creator Mike White. It originally aired on HBO on March 30, 2025, and also was available on Max on the same date.

The series follows the guests and employees of the fictional White Lotus resort chain. The season is set in Thailand, and follows the new guests, which include Rick Hatchett and his younger girlfriend Chelsea; Timothy Ratliff, his wife Victoria, and their children Saxon, Piper, and Lochlan; Jaclyn Lemon and her friends Kate and Laurie; White Lotus Hawaii employee Belinda; and White Lotus Thailand staff Pornchai, Mook, and Gaitok. In the episode, Saxon attends Chloe's party, while Rick and Frank meet the Hollingers at their house.

According to Nielsen Media Research, the episode was seen by an estimated 0.956 million household viewers and gained a 0.23 ratings share among adults aged 18–49. The episode received generally positive reviews from critics, with praise towards the performances (particularly Carrie Coon and Patrick Schwarzenegger) and build-up to the finale, although many criticized the pacing and under-developed subplots.