Sarah Jessica Parker Responds to 'Painful' 'And Just Like That...' Criticism

Sarah Jessica Parker, the iconic star globally recognized as Carrie Bradshaw, has candidly opened up about the intense and often "painful" backlash surrounding "And Just Like That...", the highly anticipated revival of "Sex and the City." Speaking on The Hollywood Reporter's "Awards Chatter" podcast, Parker expressed her profound dismay at the level of criticism, describing it as "painful" and, at times, "vitriolic."

The series, which premiered to mixed reviews, aimed to portray the beloved characters navigating the complexities of middle age and evolving lives in modern New York City. However, many fans and critics voiced strong disapproval, particularly concerning specific character arcs and the absence of key original cast members.

Parker directly addressed some of the most prominent points of contention. The storyline involving Miranda Hobbes's journey with sobriety and her relationship with Che Diaz, a non-binary comedian, drew significant ire. "I struggle with people not wanting to understand that it was a story about a woman who was an alcoholic and that she was exploring her sexuality, and for a character who had been so buttoned up and traditional," Parker explained, defending the narrative as a natural and brave progression for Miranda.

Another major point of contention was the noticeable absence of Kim Cattrall's Samantha Jones. The show creatively wrote out her character by having her move to London after a falling out with Carrie, but many viewers felt her void keenly. Parker acknowledged the challenges of moving forward without Cattrall, emphasizing the show's attempt to reflect real-life changes and the natural ebb and flow of friendships.

Parker revealed that she was genuinely surprised by the intensity of the negative reactions. "It’s so painful for people to be so critical about our choices," she stated, reflecting on the hard work and intentionality that went into the show. She highlighted the bravery of the showrunners and writers in daring to explore themes of aging, loss, and new beginnings in a way that felt authentic, even if it wasn't what every fan envisioned.

The actress underscored the show's commitment to portraying the realities of life, including wrinkles, grey hair, and the challenges of relationships and career pivots in later life. While acknowledging that not every storyline would resonate with every viewer, Parker passionately defended the creative team's vision and the integrity of their storytelling. Despite the critiques, "And Just Like That..." has been renewed for a second season, signaling continued interest and the creators' determination to further explore the lives of Carrie, Miranda, and Charlotte as they navigate new chapters.