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INTERVIEW
Francesco Zecca joined the sun-soaked chaos of The White Lotus in its second season, released in 2022, as part of the infamous "evil gays" crew that surrounded Jennifer Coolidge’s brilliantly unhinged Tanya. We sat down with the Italian actor to reflect on his breakout role as Matteo and the behind-the-scenes moments that made his time on the show unforgettable.
How did you get into acting?
I began acting at the age of 7, performing among the tables of my parents' restaurant. There, I would tell both invented and true stories.
Can you share what initially attracted you to your role in The White Lotus Season 2? How did you approach playing your character?
What I loved about Matteo's role was his cheerfulness and his constant desire to celebrate. He also had a romantic side, being the only one who truly loved Tanya.
Were there any particular scenes or moments that stood out as especially challenging or memorable for you during filming?
The set was truly memorable, thanks in large part to Mike White's brilliant and generous directing style. Working alongside Jennifer and Tom was an honour; their talent and genius made the experience unforgettable. I especially remember filming a scene in the theatre where we watched Madama Butterfly. Jennifer was simply sublime in that moment.
Given the show's success, what kind of impact has being part of The White Lotus had on your career?
I can’t express enough how wonderful it is to have participated in such an extraordinary experience in my life and career. It wasn't just a job; it was something that truly enriched me on a personal level.
Can you share any memorable behind-the-scenes moments from filming in Sicily? How did the location influence the atmosphere on set?
Taormina is extraordinary, and the hotel was exceptional as well. For the first few months, it felt like it was just us – there were very few tourists. The hotel was our own little retreat, and we became like a big family. Every day, the vibrant energy of the land nourished us.
What was it like working with the ensemble cast and creator Mike White? How did their creative vision influence your performance?
Mike is a genius with a truly special soul. He has a deep love for actors, and I felt that love as he expressed his happiness for my role as Matteo. He encouraged me to find the best in every little gesture and pushed us to improvise and play continuously. His approach brought us so much joy – I can’t help but feel emotional about it. I’ve never seen a director work in such a brilliant and ingenious way.
How did working on The White Lotus compare to other projects you’ve been involved in? Did it change your approach to acting in any way?
For me, there’s a clear before and after The White Lotus. It was a truly unique experience. Working on this project taught me to be more alive and sensitive, while also reminding me to always embrace playfulness in my craft.
Now that some time has passed since Season 2 aired, how do you reflect on your experience with the show? What did you take away from it personally and professionally?
I often reflect on this experience and hope to have the chance to repeat it someday. I am truly grateful, proud, and lucky to be able to do this wonderful job.
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