Sex and the City, the iconic groundbreaking television series that aired from 1998 to 2004 celebrates its 25th anniversary. Based on the Candace Bushnell book of the same name, the show left an indelible imprint on popular culture with its witty dialogue, fashionable ensembles, and honest portrayal of female friendships, and journeys of love and sexuality. It revolutionized television and left a lasting impact that continues to resonate today. Cover photo credit: Sex and the City/Warner Bros. Discovery
“I Can’t Have Sex With A Sandwich, Can I?” – Miranda Hobbes
The series was titled SEX and the City, and the show gave us plenty of the scandalous 3-letter word. The four friends, Carrie Bradshaw, Samantha Jones, Charlotte York, and Miranda Hobbes openly and unapologetically discussed their sexuality in a way that was often absent from mainstream media. It was refreshing and liberating to see women explore topics like casual sex, female desires, self-pleasure, and the challenges of dating in the modern world. The foursome broke down societal barriers and gave women permission to embrace their own sexuality on their own terms.
“…You’ll Never Get Through It Without Your Friends.” – Carrie Bradshaw
Long before the days of “Yes Queen,” Sex and the City showed us a group of four women who supported each other and lifted each other up. Now there have been other shows that portrayed strong female friendships. The ’80s gave us Designing Women and The Golden Girls, which were both loved by fans, but Sex and the City took it a step further. These four friends were like sisters and when one would bleed, the others felt it. They laughed and cried together, celebrated their wins, and genuinely wanted the best for each other. To this day, their authentic and timeless portrayal of female friendship and their unwavering support, unwavering loyalty, and shared experiences, reminds viewers of the importance of having a solid circle of friends who understands and uplifts them through life’s joys and challenges. The friendship left its permanent mark on TV and inspired other female-driven shows like Girlfriends and Girls, both of which touched upon taboo topics, thanks to Sex and the City paving the way.
“Hello, my name is fabulous.” – Samantha Jones
One of the appeals of the iconic show and why it will never go out of style is that it gave us a peak at the glamorous lives of four fabulous women navigating life in New York City. They all had fabulous careers, and their own sense of style, which they rocked. From the fashion-forward aesthetic including all the accessories and shoes, to the fabulous A-list parties and dinners, to the endless cosmos and martinis, we all wanted to be them, or at least live like them.
“And Just Like That…” – Carrie Bradshaw
And just like that, Sex and the City may have come to an end, but the next chapter of the saga starring Carrie, Miranda, and Charlotte is here. And Just Like That… is a revival and sequel that stays true to the original show’s signature blend of wit, fashion, and authentic friendships. It’s Sex and the City for a new era. The storylines continue to explore their friendship, the complexities of life, love, and sex in modern-day New York City while tackling new themes of age, and reinvention. The sequel is a big hit and although Samantha was noticeably absent from season one, rumor has it Kim Cattrall will reprise her role as the sexy publicist on the season two finale! And however this season plays out, I’m sure it will be fabulous!
“Maybe we could be each other’s soulmates and then we can let men be these great, nice guys to have fun with.” – Charlotte York
Celebrate Sex and the City’s 25th anniversary by reliving your favorite moments, or discover the show for the first time on Max.
