The White Lotus' Walton Goggins almost lost out on role to Hollywood A-lister

The White Lotus creator Mike White had initially envisioned someone else for the role of Rick Hatchett, which was ultimately played by Emmy-nominated actor Walton Goggins.

Despite Goggins' acclaimed performance alongside guest star Sam Rockwell and Aimee Lou Wood, who played Rick's girlfriend Chelsea, he wasn't White's first choice.

Reports claim that Woody Harrelson, known for his roles in Hunger Games and True Detective, was initially considered for the part but reportedly left due to a pay dispute.

Producer David Bernad told The Hollywood Reporter that everyone on The White Lotus is treated equally when it comes to pay and billing.

This is evident from the opening credits where main cast members are listed alphabetically, and insiders have revealed that series regulars earn around $40,000 (£31,000) per episode.

However, this offer apparently didn't sit well with Hollywood heavyweight Harrelson, who even attempted to negotiate his salary with Warner Bros. Discovery CEO David Zaslav, but to no avail.

White has since disclosed that Goggins was originally intended to play "one of these bald guys we pepper the thing with".

He added: "Walton's not exactly that. He's a bit more handsome, he has hair."

Consequently, once Harrelson dropped out, Goggins stepped into the role.

However, is there still a chance for Harrelson to take on a new character in the fourth season of The White Lotus?

The Zombieland actor might be too tied up with other commitments to jet off to another glamorous location for another stint on the HBO series for a mere $320,000 (£248,625).

He has just finished filming Now You See Me: Now You Don't and is anticipated to reprise his role in the fourth instalment of the popular magician franchise.

The White Lotus season 3 concludes Sunday, 6th April on HBO and the following Monday on Sky Go and NOW.