Writers Defend Finale Amid Divisive Reactions
This article contains major spoilers from the series finale of And Just Like That, titled “Party of One.”
The finale of And Just Like That has stirred familiar feelings for the show’s writers, who were also part of the original Sex and the City series which concluded in 2004. Julie Rottenberg and Elisa Zuritsky, who have been integral parts of the SATC writers’ room since Season 4, continued their journey as executive producers in this revival series, which has brought Carrie Bradshaw (played by Sarah Jessica Parker), Miranda Hobbes (Cynthia Nixon), and Charlotte York-Goldenblatt (Kristin Davis) back to the screen since late 2021.
After three seasons filled with mixed reviews and a notable “hate-watching” phenomenon, AJLT’s conclusion, though polarizing, marks a significant twist in Carrie’s narrative. Following a breakup with her longtime partner Aidan Shaw (John Corbett) earlier in the season, Carrie finds herself satisfied yet alone, serenading Barry White and indulging in pie in her Gramercy Park apartment. The final line of the episode, co-written by AJLT showrunner Michael Patrick King and Susan Fales-Hill, reads, “She wasn’t alone. She was on her own.”
The closing scene, underscored by the original SATC theme song, echoes the series’ own finale where Carrie ended up with Mr. Big (Chris Noth), despite her friends being her true soulmates. Reflecting on both finales, King observed, “There were people going through garbage cans looking for sides from the script.” The fervor of the fanbase remains strong, albeit more prevalent online today.
Since the finale’s release, Rottenberg and Zuritsky have encountered criticism and analysis of an ending they unanimously backed. Unlike the passionate debates about Carrie’s fate in the past, this time, Zuritsky stated, “It was the opposite of a heated debate. All these years later, like the characters, we’ve evolved.” Rottenberg added, “I think that thirst for Carrie to be happy, I hope, is greater than the thirst for her to just end coupled up.”
Despite their intentions, the writing duo was surprised by the intense backlash. Rottenberg noted, “She represents so much for so many people so, of course, we’re never going to please all the people all the time.” This attachment to the characters leads to deeply personal reactions from viewers, which the writers are keenly aware of.
Behind the Scenes: Writing the Final Chapter
During previous discussions, Zuritsky mentioned Aidan wasn’t meant to be Carrie’s “forever guy,” indicating the show wasn’t ready to culminate in a fairytale ending at that moment. She elaborated, “What would it say if she was alone? … Ultimately, everybody knows what we chose.” She and Rottenberg believe the writers have evolved alongside the characters and recognized the increasing number of women enjoying independence as an authentic life choice.
Rottenberg expressed her surprise by the number of fans relieved by the ending, sharing insights on the conversations she’s had with both partnered and single women, saying, “Maybe, were we all rooting for Carrie to be at peace, whether she’s with someone or not?”
They recounted how the unpredictability of public reaction had been a constant. “Why couldn’t Carrie and Aidan just have been happy?” one fan asked, reflecting the differing opinions on relationships developed throughout the series.
Narratively, Rottenberg and Zuritsky feel that Carrie’s experiences resonate with many, emphasizing the importance of portraying characters who represent both happiness in solitude and partnership. “I’d argue that this is a moment to celebrate those who are by themselves,” said Rottenberg.
The creative team felt the ending mirrored real life. It reflects the sentiment that happiness can be found in various forms, and that should be celebrated.
Embracing the Mixed Reactions
King previously conveyed that the story’s trajectory always aimed to bring Carrie to a sense of self-acceptance independent of romantic attachments. Thus, he stated he felt certain of the finale’s direction as the scripting unfolded. Meanwhile, the writers managed the delicate balance of engaging with fan feedback while maintaining creative integrity.
Reflecting on public engagement, Rottenberg pointed out that “the outrage was almost funny” considering people were nonetheless tuned into the narrative. She acknowledged that the series had made its mark, regardless of polarized opinions.
“In a way, I feel like the response by Carrie’s publisher… could also be read as a stand-in for the outrage of some viewers,” explained Rottenberg. “But Carrie’s decision was meant to symbolize our decision to say, ‘This is what we’re going to do.’”
As they concluded this chapter of their careers, both writers expressed gratitude and affirmation for their time on the series. Regardless of differing viewer sentiments, the connection established with the characters remains ever-present.
The Future
Looking ahead, Rottenberg and Zuritsky confirmed they have various creative projects in development, promising fans that though Carrie’s story in this iteration may have concluded, their storytelling journeys are far from over. With new works on the horizon, both writers are committed to exploring narratives that continue to resonate with their audience.
And Just Like That and Sex and the City are available for streaming on HBO Max.
