Aimee Lou Wood is an English actress and writer who began her career on stage. She won the BAFTA Television Award for Best Female Comedy Performance for her work in Sex Education. Over the years, she has appeared in various shows and films, including Film Club, Toxic Town, Daddy Issues, The Electrical Life of Louis Wain, Uncle Vanya, and Living.
Aimee shared that playing her character Chelsea helped her overcome body dysmorphia. She explained that she shifted focus from what she wanted for herself to what Chelsea wanted, which was a transformative experience.
"I shook myself out of it by thinking, 'It’s not about whether Aimee wants to show her body or not – Chelsea does.' Acting has always been a safe place for me to work out my feelings. I think for that reason a role will hit me in the heart, in the gut."
Although Aimee finds it challenging to detach from her characters, she appreciates the personal growth it brings.
"I don’t need everyone to understand me. The people that get me, get me."
Aimee Lou Wood credits acting for helping her manage mental health issues by allowing her to shift perspectives and find emotional safety through her characters.