Aimee Lou Wood Critiques SNL: "Misogynistic and Unfunny"

Aimee Lou Wood, known for her role in The White Lotus, has publicly criticized a recent SNL sketch that portrayed her with exaggerated features and suggested it was not only unfunny but also deeply misogynistic.

Aimee Lou Wood, a British actress renowned for her role in HBO's The White Lotus, has openly addressed a recent sketch from Saturday Night Live (SNL) that depicted her in a manner she describes as "mean and unfunny." The sketch featured SNL cast member Sarah Sherman impersonating Wood's character, Chelsea, with stark caricatures such as exaggerated prosthetic teeth, which Wood argues punch down rather than challenge more significant figures.

In a series of Instagram posts, Wood highlighted her willingness to embrace playful satire but stressed the need for cleverness and nuance in comedy. She stated, "I have big gap teeth, not bad teeth," emphasizing that the focus on her dental appearance was uncalled for. Wood acknowledged receiving apologies from SNL following her criticism and expressed that the humour felt one-sided, with her character being the sole target of reductive jokes.

The sketch emerged in context with a segment featuring former President Donald Trump vacationing at a fictional hotel, where Sherman's portrayal of Chelsea included a stereotypical accent and questionable dental hygiene. Wood defended herself by saying that while she is "not thin-skinned" and understands the nature of caricature in comedy, the sketch's humor crossed a line regarding body positivity and women's portrayal in media.

Furthermore, Wood reflected on the discussions surrounding her appearance, noting it often detracted from her professional work. She questioned the societal focus on women’s looks, particularly in situations like hers, stating, "I don't know if it was a man, would we be talking about it this much?"

Her remarks have resonated with many, as she reported receiving numerous supportive messages following her initial criticism. Wood's stance sparks a broader conversation about how women are represented in comedy and the fine line between humor and harmful stereotypes.