Overview

• Duke University criticized HBO's The White Lotus for using its branding without permission in a scene involving suicide imagery, calling it troubling and misaligned with the school's values.
• Actor Jason Isaacs, who wore a Duke t-shirt during the controversial scene, further stirred the debate by wearing Duke apparel at the show's season finale event.
• Isaacs described the university's backlash as 'fanciful and ridiculous,' suggesting it was an overreaction aimed at gaining viral attention.
• The controversy gained traction on social media during NCAA March Madness, with memes using the episode's imagery prompting Duke to reiterate its focus on mental health advocacy.
• Duke University has used the incident to highlight the prevalence of suicide on college campuses and promote resources like the Suicide Prevention Hotline.