Fri Mar 28 02:10:00 UTC 2025: ## Duke University Condemns Use of Branding in “The White Lotus” Suicide Scene
**DURHAM, NC** – Duke University is expressing outrage over a scene in HBO’s “The White Lotus” depicting a character appearing to contemplate suicide while wearing Duke apparel. The scene, featuring actor Jason Isaacs as a financially troubled alumnus, shows him with a gun to his head while sporting a Duke University t-shirt.
The university claims the show used its branding without permission and strongly objects to the distressing context. Frank Tramble, Duke’s vice president for communications, stated that the imagery “creates confusion and mistakenly suggests an endorsement or affiliation where none exists.” He emphasized that the scene “does not reflect our values or who we are, and simply goes too far.”
The timing of the episode’s airing, coinciding with Duke’s participation in the NCAA men’s basketball tournament, has amplified the controversy, leading to widespread online discussion and memes. Acknowledging the gravity of the situation, and the fact that suicide is the second-leading cause of death on college campuses, Duke is actively using its social media channels to promote mental health awareness and direct viewers to resources. The university is encouraging those in need to contact the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 or text HOME to 741741.
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