Aimee Lou Wood, the Manchester-born star best known for her role in Sex Education, is set to host Saturday Night Live UK this weekend, a year after she was subjected to ridicule on the American version of the iconic variety show. The actress will be joined by singer-songwriter MEEK on the programme airing this Saturday, 2nd May.
The UK iteration of SNL launched on Sky in March to widespread acclaim, despite initial scepticism about whether the format could resonate with British audiences. Wood joins a roster of notable first hosts, including Nicola Coughlan, Jamie Dornan, and Riz Ahmed. Her decision to take on the role is seen as particularly brave given the controversy that erupted last year.
The Teeth Drama Unfolds
In an April episode of the American SNL, a sketch parodying Wood's role as Chelsea in The White Lotus drew sharp criticism. Cast member Sarah Sherman wore comically large fake dentures to mimic Wood's distinctive teeth, sparking outrage among fans. Wood took to Instagram to denounce the sketch as 'mean and unfunny,' and shared a comment labelling it misogynistic.
While Wood acknowledged that she is not 'thin skinned' and can appreciate a clever joke at her expense, she urged the SNL cast to find a 'cleverer, more nuanced, less cheap way' to approach such material. The show later issued an apology, with Sherman sending flowers to the actress.
Burying the Hatchet
A year on, Wood has demonstrated a willingness to reconcile with the SNL brand, even using the controversy as fodder for humour. In a promotional video for Saturday's episode, Wood appears with cast members Al Nash, Paddy Young, Ayoade Bamgboye, and Celeste Dring. She tells them she 'cannot wait to get started' and 'wipe the slate clean' after last year's teeth debacle.
However, her paranoia sets in when she notices the comics covering their mouths. 'Oh my god. Have you guys got fake teeth in?' she asks. 'Wow, this is all just one big setup to humiliate me, then. I thought SNL UK would be different, but I was wrong.' The cast then reveals that, in fact, they have all donned 'big, glorious moustaches' inspired by Paddy, placing one on Wood and pulling her into a group hug.
Wood's Reflections on the Controversy
In a recent interview with GQ, Wood expressed frustration over the ongoing conversation about her teeth, which at one point led to online orthodontists analysing them in viral social media videos. 'It makes me really happy that it's symbolising rebellion and freedom, but there's a limit,' she said. 'The whole conversation is just about my teeth, and it makes me a bit sad because I'm not getting to talk about my work. I don't know, if it was a man, would we be talking about it this much? It's still going on about a woman's appearance.'
Saturday Night Live UK airs live on Sky and streaming service NOW.
