Aimee Lou Wood Found Strength in Her White Lotus Character While Dealing with Body Dysmorphia During Filming
Actress Aimee Lou Wood shared that embodying her role in The White Lotus helped her confront body dysmorphia she experienced during the production of the series. In an interview with Harper’s Bazaar, the 31-year-old performer spoke openly about her struggles and how her character Chelsea gave her a renewed sense of confidence.
Facing Old Struggles
Wood explained that when she learned she would have to appear in a bikini for certain scenes, it brought back memories of the body dysmorphia she had faced as a teenager. According to the Mayo Clinic, body dysmorphia is a mental health condition characterized by obsessive thoughts about perceived flaws or defects in one’s appearance.
Channeling Her Character
“I shook myself out of it by thinking, ‘It’s not about whether Aimee wants to show her body or not – Chelsea does,’”
Wood said, reflecting on her experience. By stepping into Chelsea’s mindset, she found the strength to distance herself from self-critical thoughts and focus instead on the authenticity of the role.
Growth Through Performance
The actress noted that playing complex characters often challenges her emotionally but ultimately strengthens her sense of self. She acknowledged that she sometimes needs time to separate from a role after filming, yet finds great value in what each character teaches her.
Author’s Summary
In portraying Chelsea, Aimee Lou Wood transformed personal struggle into empowerment, using her craft as both a mirror and a means of healing.