Candace Bushnell Calls Out Sex & the City for Its Weak Feminism
Sex & the City – the iconic HBO drama that once delivered unapologetic romance and Manhattan swagger – is facing a skeptical critique from its own genesis: the author of the book that turned her dating column into a cultural phenomenon. Bushnell insists the show was “not very feminist,” and she’s not afraid to fire the buzz‑bulb on television’s little irony machine.
The Original Show – A “Feminist” Question Mark
People remember the triumvirate of Carrie, Miranda, and Samantha navigating love, work, and life with a mix of wit and heartbreak. Bushnell, however, says the screen serial’s main takeaway was a maelstrom of “landing the right man.” She argues that such an approach leaves too much room for “a lot less” if a woman must lean on a man for validation.
Bushnell’s Perspective – The Economic Reality
“If you’re looking for the big romantic payoff, you’re not making the best long‑term economic choice,” she told the New York Post. “Men can be dangerous in a lot of ways.” The writer’s message? Don’t put your life on a television drama that equates success with relationship status.
HBO Max’s Big Move – The Sequel
In December, HBO Max will premiere And Just Like That…, the long‑awaited sequel. Bushnell admits she’d find it “really strange” if HBO hadn’t followed the show’s popularity, noting that the network will “make money on it” and “exploits it as much as they can.” She also jokes that if HBO didn’t reboot Sex & the City it would be “really strange.”
Cast and the Fate of Samantha
The biggest buzz around the new series is that Kim Cattrall, the legendary Samantha Jones, will not return. Bushnell acknowledges the decision with a dash of understanding: I absolutely love Kim. But it seems she wants to do other things, and she doesn’t feel like doing the show. Maybe she doesn’t want to be that character anymore. Residents of the Manhattan skyline may still scream “Who’s coming next?” but the revival is missing that iconic spark.
Key Takeaways (In Bullet List)
- Bushnell remains skeptical of a show that prioritizes romance above all.
- She warns listeners that relying on a partner can lead to self‑neglect.
- The new series will probably be marketed heavily but may lack the original charm.
- Kim Cattrall’s absence marks a notable missing piece for the ensemble.
Ultimately, Candace Bushnell is reminding us that, while the screen may paint a picture of liberation, reality demands that we build our own independence, preferably without a romance storyline as the main plot.
