In HBO’s White Lotus season three, the role originally anticipated for Milos Bikovich was reassigned to Bulgarian actor Julian Kostov. Deadline reports that Kostov has gained prominence through his portrayal of Fyodor Kaminsky in the Netflix series Shadow and Bone.
Kostov is also known for his portrayal of the Russian antagonist Vladimir Makarov in the 2023 video game Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III.
As part of the White Lotus lineup, Kostov is set to appear as a relatively small Russian character. Filming for the new season is planned to take place in Thailand.
In January, the Ukrainian Ministry of Foreign Affairs contacted HBO to express concerns about Milos Bikovich allegedly showing support for Russia in connection with the launch of a special operation. In response, the actor exited the White Lotus project and HBO opted to terminate the contract.
HBO later issued a statement addressing Bikovich’s dismissal.
Previously, Bikovich had commented on the filming approach, drawing comparisons to the work of Mikhalkov and Shipenko.
The shifting cast decisions reflect the broader balance between creative casting and international considerations that major streaming productions navigate today. The White Lotus franchise has built a diverse audience across North America, and season three’s revised casting aims to preserve the show’s tone while adapting to evolving geopolitical sensitivities.
Julian Kostov, who will bring a distinct Russian character to life on screen, has long been recognized for his versatility across film, television, and interactive media. His prior roles, including a villainous figure in high-profile video games and a dramatic lead in television, position him to contribute to the show’s layered storytelling. This transition also underscores how streaming platforms coordinate talent changes behind the scenes without disrupting production timelines, especially when filming locations like Thailand are involved.
Industry observers note that casting shifts of this scale can influence production schedules, release timelines, and audience expectations. Yet they can also introduce fresh energy to a series, allowing it to explore new dynamics while maintaining continuity with established themes. For viewers, the core question remains how the new Russian character will interact with existing cast members and the evolving narrative arc.
As the production progresses, fans and critics alike will watch to see how Kostov’s performance aligns with the show’s signature blend of satire, psychological depth, and social observation. The move also highlights how global news, public sentiment, and diplomatic considerations can intersect with entertainment, shaping decisions about who appears on screen and under what circumstances.
Overall, the season three cast reshuffle illustrates the delicate balance between artistic direction and real-world factors in contemporary television, reminding audiences that big-name projects are often subject to rapid, strategic changes that reflect the moment as much as the story being told.