Aimee Lou Wood has taken a stand against the Saturday Night Live parody of her White Lotus character, comparing her actions to “breaking a pattern” of bullying. The actress, known for her role in the popular show White Lotus, expressed her thoughts on the parody in a recent interview with BBC News, where she reiterated her stance that the sketch was “mean and unfunny.”
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In April, SNL aired a sketch titled “White Potus” which featured a spoof of Wood’s character, Chelsea, portrayed with exaggerated features like cartoonishly large teeth by cast member Sarah Sherman. Wood’s response to the sketch was swift, as she questioned on Instagram whether there could have been a more sophisticated and less demeaning way to poke fun at Chelsea.
Reflecting on her decision to call out the sketch, Wood shared with BBC News that it was a deliberate choice to disrupt a harmful pattern she experienced in the past, particularly during instances of bullying. She highlighted that speaking up against the SNL parody was a significant moment for her personal growth and advocacy against unkind humour.
During the promotion of her new BBC series Film Club, Wood underscored the importance of standing up for oneself, even amidst potential chaos or backlash. She emphasized that taking ownership of her feelings and asserting her boundaries was empowering, especially in an industry where vulnerability is often perceived as a flaw.
Following her public criticism of the SNL sketch, Wood received an outpouring of support from fans and even apologies from the show. The incident prompted conversations about the impact of comedy and satire on individuals, shedding light on the need for more thoughtful and respectful ways to engage in humour without causing harm.
In a gesture of reconciliation, Sarah Sherman, the SNL cast member behind the parody, expressed remorse for causing hurt to Wood. Sherman clarified in an interview with Vanity Fair that her intention was never to upset anyone and extended a heartfelt apology to Wood for the unintended consequences of the sketch.
Despite the initial controversy, Wood and Sherman were able to mend their relationship, with Sherman sending Wood a bouquet of flowers as a gesture of goodwill. The reconciliation between the two actresses serves as a reminder of the importance of empathy, communication, and understanding in navigating conflicts and misunderstandings, even in the public eye.
Aimee Lou Wood’s stance on the SNL parody not only sparked discussions about the boundaries of comedic satire but also highlighted the significance of advocating for oneself in the face of criticism. Her journey of self-empowerment and resilience resonates with many who have experienced similar instances of ridicule or mockery, reaffirming the importance of asserting one’s voice and values in challenging situations.