Aimee Lou Wood Responds to SNL's 'White Potus' Skit: A Comedy Controversy

The drama between Aimee Lou Wood, the beloved star of The White Lotus, and Saturday Night Live (SNL) took a public turn after a controversial skit aired on April 12, 2025. The skit, titled "White Potus," parodied Wood's character, Chelsea, in the latest season of the hit HBO show. Featuring SNL's Sarah Sherman as the exaggerated version of Wood’s character, the sketch included over-the-top prosthetics and a caricatured British accent, which quickly caught the attention of fans and critics alike. 

Where do we draw the line between humor and insult? 

Wood, however, was not amused. Taking to Instagram, she shared her discontent with the portrayal, describing it as “mean and unfunny.” Fans were quick to rally behind Wood, with many pointing out that the comedy crossed a line, focusing too much on physical characteristics like her teeth rather than her talent as an actress. "Comedy is supposed to make us laugh, but this felt like an unnecessary cheap shot at my appearance," Wood wrote in a candid post. The controversy escalated further when Walton Goggins, who stars alongside Wood in The White Lotus, seemed to dismiss the criticism. He posted a message on social media praising the skit’s humor and commended Sherman’s performance, inadvertently fueling speculation about a rift between the two co-stars. Entertainment insiders, however, clarified that Goggins and Wood are still slated to work together in upcoming projects, including an Emmy campaign, potentially quelling any rumors of a fallout, according to People.

Adding a layer of reconciliation to the saga, Sherman reached out to Wood with a heartfelt gesture: sending her a bouquet of flowers along with a personal apology. Despite this, the incident has sparked larger conversations about the ethics of body humor in comedy and the impact it has on public figures. The skit’s focus on Wood’s teeth, an aspect of her appearance that many deem part of her charm, could be seen as reinforcing harmful body image stereotypes. This issue has ignited broader discussions online about how celebrities are often reduced to physical traits rather than celebrated for their skill and artistry. Wood herself has not shied away from challenging the industry's obsession with appearance, and this recent drama serves as another example of the ongoing debate surrounding representation in media. As more celebrities weigh in on the matter, it's clear that the boundaries of comedy are being tested in ways that affect both the stars on screen and the audiences who watch them.