Entertainment

Bowen Yang Backs Aimee Lou Wood After 'SNL' Controversy: 'Her Reaction is Valid'

2025-04-20

Author: Ling

In a surprising twist in the entertainment world, Bowen Yang has stepped up to defend Aimee Lou Wood following her criticism of Saturday Night Live's recent parody of her character from The White Lotus.

Yang expressed his support in an interview with Extra, stating, "Whatever way she reacted to that sketch is completely valid. Parody often overlooks the personal and emotional impacts it can have on individuals."

The sketch, cleverly titled 'The White POTUS,' featured a cast taking jabs at Donald Trump, but it was Sarah Sherman's exaggerated portrayal of Chelsea, Wood's character, that drew ire from the actress. Sherman's bit included oversized fake teeth and an over-the-top British accent, which Wood called 'mean and unfunny' shortly after it aired.

Yang reflected on Wood’s strong reaction, emphasizing that comedians should view such criticisms as vital learning experiences. He noted, "There are moments we forget that parody can cross a line, and we need to hold ourselves accountable instead of insisting on our right to say anything."

On her Instagram, Wood shared her feelings about the sketch, describing the need for a more clever and nuanced approach to comedy. She expressed appreciation for feedback from her fans, revealing, "I received thousands of messages regarding this," and added that she has received some apologies from SNL.

After the incident, Wood shared a heartfelt thank you on social media, posting a picture of a bouquet sent by Sherman. In the days following the backlash, Yang praised Wood’s performance in the latest season of The White Lotus, saying, "Everyone at SNL is just a fan of the show and of her. She should be incredibly proud of her work this season."

As Yang promotes his new film, a remake of Ang Lee's classic The Wedding Banquet, he recalled a daring moment in the movie that mirrors his comedy approach, stating, "In the context of comedy, baring it all in that scene felt right—embracing the shocking nature of it all."