When HBO revived Sex and the City with the series And Just Like That fans hoped for a nostalgic return to the iconic friendships, fashion, and witty insights into life and love. However, the new series struggled to live up to the original’s legacy. Understanding the reasons behind this disconnect reveals why the reboot missed the mark for many longtime fans.
A Shift in Tone That Alienated Fans
One of the most notable changes was the tonal shift from the sparkling escapism and fabulously risky adventures of single life to heavier, more somber themes focusing on midlife crises and social issues. The original show charmed audiences with its blend of humor, candid conversations about sex, and the powerful camaraderie among the “Fab Four”. In contrast, And Just Like That… traded that for what many critics describe as heavy-handed social commentary, awkward plotlines, and an absence of the original series’ effortless chemistry between characters.
Even the pacing and storytelling felt disrupted. Significant plot points, such as Lisa’s miscarriage or Seema’s storyline, were introduced abruptly and then dropped without resolution, leaving viewers frustrated by these loose ends. Moreover, jokes about sensitive topics like aging and cancer often missed the mark, feeling more uncomfortable than insightful.
This tonal misjudgment resulted in a series that some described as “cringe”—simultaneously difficult to watch but hard to turn away from, highlighting an uneven blend of tragedy and triviality that failed to engage in a satisfying way.
Character Changes and Nostalgia Mismanagement
The absence of Kim Cattrall’s Samantha Jones robbed the series of one of its most dynamic characters. Samantha’s sexually progressive and unapologetic personality was a cornerstone of the original show, representing boldness and liberation. Without her presence, And Just Like That… lacked much of the provocative energy that set Sex and the City apart.
Additionally, fans noticed drastic personality changes in beloved characters. Miranda’s storyline, for instance, was criticized for lacking consistency, and Charlotte’s development felt more like a reactive plot device than an organic evolution. For many, the characters felt cartoonish, distancing the audience instead of drawing them in. The original series presented complex yet relatable women navigating life’s ups and downs in vibrant New York City settings. The reboot, on the other hand, often felt more like a caricature of wealth and privilege disconnected from realistic portrayals, which was a disappointing departure from the original immersive atmosphere.
Missed Opportunities in Portraying Aging and Sexuality
While the sequel attempted to tackle issues relevant to women in their fifties—such as loss, mortality, and changing relationships—it largely sidestepped one of the most promising aspects: the evolution of sexuality with aging. The series barely scratched the surface of exploring sex and intimacy beyond youth, despite the title’s legacy. Characters like Seema, a new addition played by Sarita Choudhury, had the potential to bring fresh perspectives on aging and sexuality but were given minimal screen time and shallow storylines.
In this, the show contrasted sharply with other contemporary series that handle aging and sexuality with frankness and humor, like Grace and Frankie, which have received praise for representing mature experiences authentically. The failure to seize this opportunity was a critical letdown for viewers hoping for a continuation that reflected the complexities of real life rather than merely updating characters superficially.
Read also: Eddie Murphy’s Return with ‘The Pickup’: Miss or Hit?”
