Jason Isaacs’ Hilarious Duke T-Shirt Troll Sparks Controversy After The White Lotus Episode!

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In its third season, the show introduced even more intricate plot twists, a trait it’s been known for since its debut. However, this season drew criticism from a well-known educational institution.

In the fifth episode of Season 3, titled “Full-Moon Party,” character Timothy Ratliff, portrayed by Jason Isaacs, entertained dark thoughts about self-harm due to his financial woes and family issues. Notably, he donned a shirt emblazoned with Duke’s insignia during this scene, which sparked controversy from the university over the use of their logo. More recently, Isaacs discussed the issue on Rob Lowe’s podcast, mentioning that he would sport Duke merchandise whenever cameras are present.

In addition to sporting a shirt adorned with the Duke theme in the popular HBO series, Isaac also donned another one that subtly referenced his alma mater during an event. During the interview, the actor humorously explained his fashion decision: “It so happened that I was delayed at Charlotte Airport the other day, and my luggage hadn’t arrived at my destination,” the “Harry Potter” star revealed. “Since I couldn’t find my suitcases, I ended up purchasing a t-shirt from the airport featuring a devil on it, unaware that it was a Duke shirt.

As a cinephile enthusiast, I shared, “Now, I own an assortment of Duke t-shirts. Unfortunately, I didn’t sport one today. Had I known [that Lowe’s son is a Duke alum], I would have been wearing it right now. However, I plan to don them whenever the cameras are around. Jokingly, I must admit, “I apologize, Duke, looks like my honorary degree is forfeited!

On the television series, Timothy, portrayed by Isaacs, was a former student at Duke University, with his eldest son Saxon, played by Patrick Schwarzenegger, also attending the same institution. However, Lachlan, their younger son, was considering whether to attend Duke or UNC Chapel Hill instead. During a podcast discussion about Timothy’s wardrobe, Isaacs mentioned, “I suggested to Alex, our talented Emmy-winning costume designer, that perhaps he wears a Duke T-shirt for sleeping.” Isaacs further added, “He probably holds leadership positions and is involved in fundraising events at the university as well.

In a subsequent statement, the actor mentioned, “We obtained a Duke T-shirt for me to sleep in, which I believe has been approved since appearing on TV without properly clearing all logos is unheard of. Yet, it appears someone from Duke found this connection inappropriate and was displeased with the association.

Duke University Called Out the Use of the Logo in The White Lotus

Frank Tamble, Duke’s Vice President for Communications, Marketing, and Public Affairs, expressed after the episode aired: “The White Lotus not only employs our brand without consent, but in our opinion, it uses it in problematic imagery that contradicts our values and identity, and crosses a line.

Instead of using the phrase “doubling down,” consider saying “Isaac reiterated” or “Isaac emphasized.” In simpler terms, Isaac told Lowe, “Other people online have noted that it’s more important to be concerned about actual alumni from Duke than a fictional one.

The White Lotus Seasons 1 to 3 are available to stream on Max.

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2025-04-18 23:10