Major Spoilers from the Finale of And Just Like That
In a twist of déjà vu, the writers of And Just Like That reflect on the series finale, paralleling the emotions felt during the original Sex and the City finale in 2004. Julie Rottenberg and Elisa Zuritsky, who have been part of the writing team since season four of SATC, continued their journey as executive producers for the revival that brought Carrie, Miranda, and Charlotte back into the spotlight.
The Finale’s Reception
After three seasons filled with critical discussions and a notable “hate-watching” phenomenon surrounding the sequel series, AJLT ended with a divisive resolution for Carrie. Having navigated a breakup with Aidan and a brief romance with her neighbor, Carrie finds peace alone, reflecting on her independence. The final episode, “Party of One,” showcases her alone but content, culminating in the poignant line: “She wasn’t alone. She was on her own.”
Fan Reactions and Evolving Perspectives
The final scene, accompanied by the original SATC theme, serves as a bookend to Carrie’s story, contrasting her previous romantic conclusion with Big. The writers acknowledge the fervor surrounding both finales, highlighting the fans’ passion—a passion that has now transitioned to online platforms. Rottenberg and Zuritsky expressed surprise at the extent of the backlash against Carrie’s solitary ending, attributing it to the deep-seated connections fans have with the characters.
Creative Processes and Character Evolution
Elisa Zuritsky elaborated on how the writing team’s views have shifted over the years, focusing more on narratives celebrating individual independence rather than romantic conclusions. This time, the absence of heated debates within the writers’ room reflected a collective evolution in perspectives on love, relationships, and personal fulfillment for women.
The Impact of Social Media
Both writers observed the heightened emotional reaction to the finale amidst today’s digital age, feeling it represents a broader cultural tendency to channel personal frustrations onto public figures. They recognized the complex relationship audiences have with the characters, suggesting that it’s a testament to how impactful these representations are in viewers’ lives.
Looking Ahead
As they conclude this chapter, Rottenberg and Zuritsky are optimistic about their future projects, hinting at upcoming series and films. While acknowledging the significant legacy of And Just Like That and Sex and the City, they reflect on how the characters will always maintain a presence in viewers’ hearts, leaving the door slightly ajar for possible future stories.
And Just Like That and Sex and the City are available for streaming on HBO Max. Check out THR’s ranking of top episodes for more nostalgia.
