SNL Criticized for 'White POTUS' Parody Sketch

Saturday Night Live faced criticism after airing a parody sketch titled 'The White POTUS' that mocked The White Lotus star Aimee Lou Wood’s appearance, particularly her teeth, leading Wood to call the skit 'mean and unfunny.' Bowen Yang, an SNL cast member, publicly supported Wood's response, acknowledging the emotional impact of parody and emphasizing the need for comedians to be accountable. Wood received apologies from SNL and from Sarah Sherman, who portrayed her in the sketch, and both stressed the importance of nuance and empathy in satire. The incident has reignited conversations about the boundaries of comedy and the responsibility comedians have when parodying real people. Wood clarified that her criticism was aimed at the concept of the parody, not at the individuals involved. Both parties appear to have moved forward after the exchange.