Sarah Jessica Parker Unpacks the "Hate-Watching" Phenomenon of 'And Just Like That...'

The highly anticipated return to the world of Carrie, Miranda, and Charlotte with "And Just Like That..." ignited a fervent mix of excitement and, for some, outright frustration. The HBO Max revival of "Sex and the City" quickly became a hot topic, prompting a phenomenon widely dubbed "hate-watching." Now, the very woman at the heart of it all, Sarah Jessica Parker, has gracefully weighed in on the passionate — and sometimes vitriolic — reactions from viewers.

In a candid discussion, Parker, who executive produces and stars as the iconic Carrie Bradshaw, revealed she is keenly aware of the divided opinions.

Far from being deterred, SJP views the intense engagement, even from those who claim to "hate-watch," as a testament to the show's enduring power and the deep connection fans have with these beloved characters. "It's a good sign," Parker remarked, acknowledging the irony. "Whether you're watching it with pleasure or you're watching it with real disappointment, and you're watching it out of curiosity, and you're watching it to complain, I think that's actually all a good thing."

This perspective underscores Parker's understanding of the unique bond audiences forged with "Sex and the City" over decades.

The original series was more than just a show; it was a cultural touchstone that explored friendship, relationships, and womanhood with an unprecedented frankness. When a franchise with such a legacy returns, expectations run sky-high, and deviations from cherished narratives can evoke strong emotional responses.

Parker isn't naive to the motivations behind some of the critical viewing.

She humorously suggested that some might tune in purely to "report back" or to witness perceived missteps. Yet, she maintains that any form of viewership signifies investment. "I think it’s exciting," she added. "And it is exactly what we want. We want people to be engaged, to be curious, to be heartened, to be devastated, to be thrilled."

The essence of "And Just Like That...", as Parker explained, was to portray these women navigating entirely new chapters of their lives, grappling with the complexities of middle age, grief, and evolving friendships.

This meant venturing into new territories and, inevitably, making choices that might surprise or even displease some long-time fans. Parker’s message is clear: the show is a continuation, not a re-tread, and with continuation comes change.

Ultimately, Sarah Jessica Parker's thoughtful response encapsulates a profound respect for her audience.

She doesn't dismiss the negative feedback nor does she solely embrace the positive. Instead, she cherishes the collective energy that keeps the conversation alive. The passion, whether expressed through praise or protest, confirms that Carrie, Miranda, and Charlotte remain indelible figures in the cultural landscape, sparking debates and capturing imaginations, just as they always have.