Sex and the City: Still a Cultural Icon in 2025?
Few TV shows have had the lasting cultural impact of Sex and the City. Originally airing from 1998 to 2004, the series followed the lives of four dynamic women navigating love, career, and friendship in New York City. With its bold storytelling, fashionable aesthetics, and candid conversations about relationships, the show became a defining voice of the late '90s and early 2000s. But in 2025, does Sex and the City still hold its charm, or has it become a relic of the past?
A New Generation of Fans
Despite being over two decades old, Sex and the City remains relevant today. The show’s recent availability on Netflix in the U.S. (as of April 2024) has introduced it to a new generation of viewers—particularly Gen Z. Many younger audiences appreciate the show’s themes of independence, female friendships, and self-exploration.
However, modern viewers also critique certain aspects of the show, such as its lack of diversity and outdated perspectives on gender roles and relationships. While Carrie Bradshaw was once considered the ultimate style icon and voice of a generation, some Gen Z viewers now find her character frustrating, describing her as self-absorbed and financially irresponsible. This shift in perspective highlights how cultural attitudes have evolved since the show's original run.
The Legacy Continues: And Just Like That
The Sex and the City franchise didn’t end with the original series. The show spawned two movies (2008 and 2010) and a sequel series, And Just Like That, which premiered in 2021. This revival, following Carrie, Miranda, and Charlotte in their 50s, brought mixed reviews but proved there was still interest in the characters' lives. The series tackled modern issues such as aging, inclusivity, and digital dating, attempting to keep Sex and the City relevant in today’s world.
A Podcast for Nostalgic Fans
To further cement the show's ongoing influence, Kristin Davis (who played Charlotte) recently launched a podcast titled Are You a Charlotte? in January 2025. The podcast delves into the show's themes, cultural impact, and how its lessons still apply to relationships and society today. This venture proves that Sex and the City is more than just nostalgia—it’s a conversation that continues to evolve.
The Influence on Fashion
One of Sex and the City's most enduring legacies is its impact on fashion. The show introduced audiences to bold and experimental styles, making Manolo Blahnik heels, Fendi baguette bags, and nameplate necklaces iconic. Even today, fashion influencers and designers reference Carrie Bradshaw's eclectic style, and vintage Sex and the City-inspired looks are trending once again.
Representation and Criticism
While Sex and the City broke boundaries in many ways, it also faced criticism for its lack of diversity and sometimes problematic portrayals of relationships. Modern audiences have pointed out the absence of LGBTQ+ and non-white characters in major roles. And Just Like That has attempted to address these issues by adding a more diverse cast, though reactions to these changes have been mixed.
The Show’s Impact on Modern TV
Many contemporary TV shows owe a debt to Sex and the City. Series like Girls, The Bold Type, and Emily in Paris have drawn comparisons due to their focus on strong female leads navigating life and love. The show’s frank discussions about relationships and sex helped pave the way for more open conversations in mainstream media.
The Final Verdict: Is Sex and the City Still Popular?
The answer is a resounding yes—but with caveats. While some aspects of the show may not age well, its core themes of friendship, love, and self-discovery remain timeless. Sex and the City continues to influence fashion, media, and discussions around female empowerment. Whether revisited for nostalgia or discovered by new audiences, the show remains a pop culture staple in 2025.
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