Julian Kostov replaces Milos Bikovic in 'The White Lotus'

The 'Shadow and Bone' actor will return in the show's third season, which starts filming in Thailand this month. He joins the cast after HBO "decided to part ways" with Bikovic, following public criticism from Ukraine's Ministry of Foreign Affairs for Bikovic's apparent support for Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

According to The Hollywood Reporter, in a January 24 social media post, the ministry wrote, "HBO, is it all right for you to work with a person who supports genocide & violates international law?" over a video clip of statements Bikovic has made about Ukraine and the annexation of Crimea. The Serbia-born actor has worked in Russia for the past decade; he received an award from Russian leader Vladimir Putin in 2018 and became a Russian citizen in 2021.

"I was honored to be chosen to be a part of White Lotus, a TV series that I hold in high regard and with colleagues whom I deeply respect," Bikovic said in a statement after he was let go. "However, my participation is not possible due to reasons beyond the realm of art and I will not bow to any narrative that seeks to compromise my integrity. I would like to thank everyone who stood by me. I wish my colleagues great success in creating the next season."

Kostov joins a cast that includes Leslie Bibb, Carrie Coon, Francesca Corney, Nicholas Duvernay, Arnas Fedaravicius, Christian Friedel, Walton Goggins, Dom Hetrakul, Sarah Catherine Hook, Jason Isaacs, Michelle Monaghan, Sam Nivola, Morgana O'Reilly, Lek Patravadi, Shalini Peiris, Parker Posey, Natasha Rothwell, Patrick Schwarzenegger, Tayme Thapthimthong, and Aimee Lou Wood.

Series creator, writer and director Mike White executive produces 'The White Lotus' with David Bernad and Mark Kamine.

A native of Bulgaria, Kostov recurred on the first season of Netflix's 'Shadow and Bone'. His credits also include 'A Discovery of Witches', 'Berlin Station', and 'Treadstone', reported The Hollywood Reporter. (ANI)