The iconic character of Carrie Bradshaw from Sex and the City has long been a subject of fascination and debate for audiences. The line between love and hate for Carrie is as thin as the heel of her beloved Manolo Blahniks. While some fans adore her for her unapologetic individuality and stylish flair, others criticize her for her flawed decisions and sometimes self-centered behavior. This duality of perceptions surrounding Carrie has been a recurring theme in discussions about the show. Sarah Jessica Parker, the actress who brought Carrie to life, has reportedly been affected by the criticisms of her character. In a recent episode of Kristen Davis’s podcast Are You a Charlotte?, Davis revealed that Parker takes fan criticism of Carrie “personally.” Davis, who played the sweet and traditional Charlotte York on the show, shared this insight during a conversation with the show’s producer, Michael Patrick King. She mentioned that even to this day, some fans express strong opinions about Carrie, calling her “the worst” or criticizing specific actions, like her infidelity toward Aidan (played by John Corbett) or her unconventional fashion choices, such as wearing a slip to grab coffee.
The cast of Sex and the City has always been close-knit, and Davis has been a constant source of support for Parker. Before the spinoff series And Just Like That began, Parker confided in Davis about her frustrations with how some fans perceived Carrie. Davis recalled Parker asking her, “What is this thing where people don’t like Carrie? I mean, how could they not like Carrie?” Davis, ever the reassuring friend, encouraged Parker not to dwell on the negativity. This exchange highlights the emotional investment Parker has in her character and the impact fan opinions can have on her. It also underscores the deep bond between the cast members, who have navigated the highs and lows of fame together. Despite the mixed reactions to Carrie, her character remains one of the most talked-about in pop culture history, proving that her impact on audiences is undeniable.
One of the more recent critiques of Carrie Bradshaw came from an unexpected source: rapper Megan Thee Stallion. During an October appearance on The Tonight Show With Jimmy Fallon, Megan expressed her thoughts on Sex and the City after binge-watching the series. She admitted that she was “upset” by how the show ended, which likely refers to the controversial finale that left many fans divided. Megan aligned herself with Samantha Jones, the bold and unapologetic character played by Kim Cattrall, and had some harsh words for Carrie. She described Carrie as “always attractive, doing these sicko things” and even called her “nuts.” While Megan’s comments were lighthearted, they reflect the ongoing debate about Carrie’s choices and personality. Interestingly, Megan also saw a bit of herself in Carrie, particularly in her love for drama. She quipped that Carrie seemed to start her day by asking herself, “How can I mess up everybody’s day?” This observation adds a layer of complexity to the conversation, as it acknowledges Carrie’s flaws while also celebrating her larger-than-life personality.
Megan Thee Stallion’s comments are just one example of how Carrie Bradshaw continues to be a topic of discussion years after the show ended. Her character has become a cultural touchstone, symbolizing both empowerment and dysfunction. Fans and critics alike have analyzed her relationships, fashion choices, and life decisions, making her one of the most polarizing characters in TV history. While some admire her independence and willingness to take risks, others find her self-absorption and treatment of loved ones, like Aidan, problematic. The fact that Carrie can elicit such strong emotions speaks to the depth of the character and the talent of Sarah Jessica Parker, who brought her to life with such nuance. Love her or hate her, Carrie Bradshaw is undeniably memorable, and her influence on pop culture remains unmatched.
Kristen Davis’s revelation about Sarah Jessica Parker’s sensitivity to criticism adds another layer to the story of Carrie Bradshaw’s legacy. It humanizes Parker, reminding fans that actors are not immune to the opinions of their audience. Parker’s emotional connection to her character is understandable, given how deeply embedded she became in the role over the years. Carrie was more than just a fictional character; she was a symbol of female empowerment and a reflection of the challenges women face in balancing careers, relationships, and personal growth. For many fans, Carrie’s journey resonated deeply, which is why her decisions, both good and bad, sparked such strong reactions. Parker’s ability to embody Carrie’s complexity is a testament to her talent, and it’s no surprise that she feels personally affected by the critiques of her character.
In the end, Carrie Bradshaw’s enduring appeal lies in her imperfections. She is a character who defies easy categorization, embodying both strength and vulnerability in equal measure. Whether fans love her or hate her, there’s no denying that Carrie has left an indelible mark on popular culture. Her story, along with those of her friends Charlotte, Samantha, and Miranda, continues to inspire new generations of viewers, even as the world around them changes. As And Just Like That explores the next chapter of Carrie’s life, one thing is certain: her legacy as a cultural icon is here to stay. Love her or hate her, Carrie Bradshaw is a character who will always be remembered for her unwavering commitment to being herself, no matter the cost.
