Aimee Lou Wood, the breakout star of The White Lotus Season 3, recently revealed her emotional struggle after learning that HBO initially resisted casting her. The British actress, known for her role as Chelsea in the hit HBO series, shared that the experience left her feeling “ugly” despite becoming a fan favorite.
Wood disclosed that The White Lotus creator Mike White had to advocate fiercely for her casting, which inadvertently triggered her insecurities. The actress also addressed the public’s fixation on her natural teeth, questioning whether male actors face similar scrutiny.
Mike White’s Fight to Cast Wood
During the first week of filming, a producer told Wood that White had to push hard for her role.
“Someone told me how much Mike had fought for me. They said, ‘It had to be you, no matter what HBO said,’” Wood recalled in an interview with GQ Hype .
While the comment was meant to highlight White’s support, Wood internalized it differently:
“My little head goes: ‘HBO didn’t want me. And I know why HBO didn’t want me, it’s because I’m ugly. Mike had to say, “Please let me have the ugly girl!”’ That was the thing that was in my head” .
HBO has not publicly commented on the casting process. Wood’s portrayal of Chelsea, a quirky romantic optimist paired with Walton Goggins’ character, earned widespread praise, proving White’s instincts right .
Public Focus on Her Appearance
Wood also expressed frustration over discussions about her teeth overshadowing her acting. Fans and media often spotlight her natural overbite, which she once embraced as a symbol of rebellion against Hollywood beauty standards.
“It makes me really happy that it’s symbolizing 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” .
She questioned whether male actors face the same level of scrutiny:
“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” .
Past Struggles with Body Image
Wood has been open about her battles with body dysmorphia and imposter syndrome. In past interviews, she revealed writing cruel words like “fat” on her mirror as self-punishment . Her experience filming intimate scenes in Sex Education also left her feeling exposed, as she was the only main cast member doing extensive nudity at the time .
On The White Lotus, she found support from co-stars Michelle Monaghan and Carrie Coon, who helped her navigate sex scenes with more confidence .
Fan Reactions and Industry Double Standards
Wood’s candidness resonated with fans, many of whom expressed heartbreak over her self-doubt. Social media posts defending her beauty and talent went viral, with one tweet reading, “my heart just shattered into a million pieces aimee lou wood you are so so loved” .
Critics have pointed out the industry’s double standards, where unconventional looks in women are scrutinized more than in men. Wood’s refusal to conform—rejecting Botox and veneers—has been celebrated as a stand against unrealistic beauty norms .
The Success of Season 3
Despite her personal struggles, Wood’s performance inThe White Lotus Season 3 was a highlight. Her chemistry with Goggins and the tragic arc of her character, Chelsea, left a lasting impression on audiences .
Rumors of a behind-the-scenes feud with Goggins surfaced after fans noticed they didn’t follow each other on social media. However, both actors have spoken fondly of their collaboration, with Goggins calling Wood “my partner” in a heartfelt Instagram post .
