Unpacking the Cultural Impact and Controversies of “And Just Like That”

Late 2021 saw the eagerly awaited return of Sex and the City through its revival, “And Just Like That.” The show’s comeback, however, was met with a cocktail of delight, anticipation, and a healthy dose of trepidation from its devoted fanbase.

The latest iteration of the beloved franchise offered a chance for redemption after two film adaptations failed to live up to the legacy of the original series. The revival promised a nuanced exploration of the challenges that Sarah Jessica Parker’s Carrie and her friends faced in their later years, aiming to resuscitate the magic that the original series brought to viewers worldwide.

Arriving in the thick of the Covid-19 pandemic, “And Just Like That” provided a welcome escape from the sombre reality of lockdowns and quarantine. The iconic image of Carrie and her friends, once strutting down New York streets in glamorous Manolo Blahniks, sharply contrasted the reality of fans stuck at home, swapping their high-fashion attire for comfortable loungewear.

The revival also attempted to rectify the original series’ lack of racial diversity, a long-standing critique, by introducing three new characters of colour. Yet, these positive strides were not without their controversies.

The inclusion of Che Diaz, a pot-smoking, non-binary comedian portrayed by Sara Ramirez, ignited a flurry of discourse. Che became the character that fans loved to hate, prompting a slew of critical think pieces and viral memes. The integration of Carrie’s friend group was awkwardly executed, lacking subtlety and nuance.

However, the show had to grapple with numerous other challenges. A series of notable absences cast long shadows over the storyline. The shocking demise of Mr. Big, played by Chris Noth, in the first episode had long-lasting repercussions. With allegations of sexual assault surfacing against Noth, the show’s producers had to hastily adjust the season finale. Stanford Blatch, portrayed by Willie Garson, was abruptly written off following the actor’s untimely death during production. Furthermore, the conspicuous absence of Samantha Jones, owing to Kim Cattrall’s decision not to return, was another significant blow to the series.

The show’s signature voice-over, provided by Carrie, was also noticeably absent. This feature, much loved by fans for its witty commentary and perspective, was sorely missed. Characters’ arcs also raised eyebrows, as the former versions of the characters seemed distant and transformed. Fans found it hard to reconcile Miranda’s unexpected shift in career and family life or Carrie’s belated foray into podcasting.

Viewers like Ryan Green, who had followed the show for over two decades, felt let down by the seemingly regressive development of the characters. Despite their apprehensions, many fans remained loyal, ready to follow their favourite characters into this new chapter, regardless of the discordance.

Yet, even with its contentious reception, the show succeeded in reigniting conversations around the franchise, illuminating its cultural relevance and enduring influence. While the responses ranged from adoration to disappointment, “And Just Like That” proved that Sex and the City’s iconic charm continues to resonate with its viewers, sustaining its position as a cultural mainstay. Whether it remains true to its roots or evolves to reflect contemporary society, the show’s ability to stimulate dialogue and provoke thought is undeniable.

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