When I first tuned into “Sex and the City,” I found a kindred spirit in the character of Carrie Bradshaw. Like Carrie, I’m a romantic at heart, a writer, and someone who believes in the goodness of people — and before tying the knot, I was often in relationships just like her.
However, there are notable differences between us — particularly our social circles and skin tones. As HBO prepares for the reboot of “Sex and the City,” I hope to see more than just “diversity for diversity’s sake.” For those who remember “Sex and the City 2,” the film’s trip to Abu Dhabi showcased a glaring lack of insight into cultural sensitivities, revealing the characters’ white privilege in a rather uncomfortable way.
While I watch (and enjoy) “Sex and the City” for its humor, raunchiness, and romantic escapades, I can’t help but notice the glaring absence of diversity in the original cast. In this new iteration, the trio of women — now down to three with Samantha’s departure — must gain an understanding of what it means to be a person of color living in New York City, navigating issues of race, class, and sexuality. The writers and producers have a crucial opportunity to address this, especially at a time when social justice and equity are at the forefront of national conversations. Every voice is valuable, including those in the writing room.
As the characters (Charlotte, Carrie, and Miranda) embark on new chapters in their lives in New York, our nation will be in the early months of President Joe Biden’s administration. I wonder how the writers will incorporate fresh perspectives into the narrative.
Let’s welcome characters that resonate with authenticity — for example, a powerful Black woman and another from an Asian background, as rumored. However, these characters should not merely serve as tokens; they should have meaningful roles and storylines that lend depth and relatability, allowing viewers to connect with them fully. The writers must push beyond the comfort zones of privileged white women and their experiences with affluent partners.
While there are whispers about the new cast’s makeup, we won’t know for certain until the show premieres this fall. It’s essential that the portrayal of diversity goes beyond tokenism, as seen with Charlotte’s daughter — the only Asian character previously. The narrative should reflect the true diversity of New York City, showcasing interracial relationships and a more accurate representation of the LGBTQ+ community beyond stereotypes.
The three remaining white women, who epitomize privilege, need a wake-up call; they cannot exist in a bubble, especially as New York residents. The writers must muster the courage to confront the uncomfortable truths about race and privilege that permeate our society.
As reported, there will be new characters introduced, including a “strong, powerful African-American woman” and another from “an Asian background.” However, the vagueness of these descriptions raises questions about how diversity will be genuinely portrayed. Historically, “Sex and the City” has struggled with this, and it’s crucial that the reboot does not repeat past mistakes.
The writers have a responsibility to educate themselves and authentically represent the diversity that America needs to see. Representation is vital, and there are successful models to follow — take cues from creators like Shonda Rhimes and Ava DuVernay, who provide rich, multifaceted narratives.
In summary, we can learn much from each other, and it all begins with education — even through the lens of the new “Sex and the City.” I look forward to the reboot.
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