Wood reflects on societal standards of beauty after controversy surrounding her recent SNL impersonation.
Aimee Lou Wood Slams SNL's Misguided Parody as 'Mean and Unfunny'

Aimee Lou Wood Slams SNL's Misguided Parody as 'Mean and Unfunny'
Actress expresses frustration over portrayal, calling it a misogynistic jab.
Aimee Lou Wood, the star of The White Lotus, has criticized a recent Saturday Night Live (SNL) sketch that featured her in a derogatory manner, using exaggerated prosthetic teeth to mock her appearance. The British actress expressed her feelings through her Instagram, labeling the parody as "mean and unfunny," and argued that it exemplified misogyny.
Wood, 31, stated that while she appreciates humor, there should be a more sophisticated, thoughtful approach to comedy rather than cheap shots. After voicing her concerns, Wood indicated that she received “apologies from SNL.” The BBC has reached out to NBC to obtain further comments regarding the incident.
The offending skit aired as part of a segment featuring US President Trump and his aides at a fictitious hotel. Wood's character, Chelsea, was mimicked by Sarah Sherman, who exaggerated Wood's gap teeth and accent. One notable line, “Fluoride? What's that?” seemed to further the derision.
In her posts, Wood clarified that she understood SNL’s intent is caricature, yet felt the focus on her teeth missed the mark. "I have big gap teeth not bad teeth," she explained. While she recognized that other jokes in the skit were more clever, she felt that her character was unfairly targeted, leading to a sense of disadvantage.
Wood acknowledged not harboring ill will towards Sherman, emphasizing her disdain was directed at the concept rather than the performer. She shared a critique she received, noting that it encapsulated her feelings about the sketch's turn toward antiquated misogynistic humor. Additionally, she voiced her disappointment with Sherman's accent choice, underscoring her respect for accuracy, even when the portrayal was hurtful.
Since making her statements, the actress reported receiving an influx of supportive messages. Speaking with GQ recently, Wood addressed how discussions surrounding her appearance have led to feelings of frustration, as they overshadow her professional efforts. She questioned whether this focus would be as pervasive if she were male, underlining the ongoing issue of societal standards pertaining to women's appearances.
In a show of support, Wood's sister, Emily, praised her sibling on social media, calling her a "powerhouse" and expressing fierce loyalty. She stated that her admiration and "animalistic protectiveness" round out her deep affection for Aimee.
Wood, 31, stated that while she appreciates humor, there should be a more sophisticated, thoughtful approach to comedy rather than cheap shots. After voicing her concerns, Wood indicated that she received “apologies from SNL.” The BBC has reached out to NBC to obtain further comments regarding the incident.
The offending skit aired as part of a segment featuring US President Trump and his aides at a fictitious hotel. Wood's character, Chelsea, was mimicked by Sarah Sherman, who exaggerated Wood's gap teeth and accent. One notable line, “Fluoride? What's that?” seemed to further the derision.
In her posts, Wood clarified that she understood SNL’s intent is caricature, yet felt the focus on her teeth missed the mark. "I have big gap teeth not bad teeth," she explained. While she recognized that other jokes in the skit were more clever, she felt that her character was unfairly targeted, leading to a sense of disadvantage.
Wood acknowledged not harboring ill will towards Sherman, emphasizing her disdain was directed at the concept rather than the performer. She shared a critique she received, noting that it encapsulated her feelings about the sketch's turn toward antiquated misogynistic humor. Additionally, she voiced her disappointment with Sherman's accent choice, underscoring her respect for accuracy, even when the portrayal was hurtful.
Since making her statements, the actress reported receiving an influx of supportive messages. Speaking with GQ recently, Wood addressed how discussions surrounding her appearance have led to feelings of frustration, as they overshadow her professional efforts. She questioned whether this focus would be as pervasive if she were male, underlining the ongoing issue of societal standards pertaining to women's appearances.
In a show of support, Wood's sister, Emily, praised her sibling on social media, calling her a "powerhouse" and expressing fierce loyalty. She stated that her admiration and "animalistic protectiveness" round out her deep affection for Aimee.