Sarah Jessica Parker Bids Emotional Farewell to Carrie Bradshaw

After nearly three decades, Sarah Jessica Parker has officially bid farewell to Carrie Bradshaw, the beloved character she originated in 1998’s ‘Sex and the City’. The announcement came on August 1, 2025, as HBO confirmed that ‘And Just Like That...’—the series’ latest chapter—will end with its third season, effectively concluding the franchise’s storied run. Parker, who has embodied Bradshaw for 27 years, posted a moving tribute on social media, reflecting on both the end of an era and the indelible mark her character has left on popular culture .

In her statement, Parker thanked fans for their unwavering support and for embracing “all the messy, glamorous, beautiful parts of Carrie’s journey.” She described the experience as “transformative, both personally and professionally,” and emphasized her gratitude to the cast, crew, and global audience who have kept the story alive for nearly three decades .

Since its original HBO debut, ‘Sex and the City’ has been widely recognized not only for its fashion and frank discussions of sex and relationships but also for its significance to LGBTQ+ audiences. The show broke ground by centering women’s voices and exploring queer themes and characters—most memorably through friendships with gay men like Stanford Blatch, played by the late Willie Garson, and Anthony Marentino, portrayed by Mario Cantone. These relationships were among the first in mainstream television to portray LGBTQ+ individuals as vibrant, multi-dimensional figures whose stories were woven into the fabric of the show .

The continuation of the franchise with ‘And Just Like That...’ expanded this representation by introducing new LGBTQ+ characters, including Che Diaz, a non-binary stand-up comedian played by Sara Ramirez. This inclusion marked a significant step forward in reflecting the diversity of the LGBTQ+ community on screen, fostering dialogue and visibility around gender identity and sexual orientation .

For many LGBTQ+ viewers, Carrie Bradshaw’s journey symbolized the pursuit of authenticity—a value deeply resonant within queer communities. The show’s embrace of chosen family, self-expression, and the complexities of love and friendship echoed themes central to LGBTQ+ life. Its depiction of New York City as a haven for self-discovery and acceptance offered hope and visibility to those seeking affirmation .

Fans and activists have credited the franchise for normalizing conversations about sexuality and relationships, both queer and straight, in living rooms around the world. LGBTQ+ writers and critics have repeatedly highlighted the show’s influence in paving the way for more inclusive storytelling and authentic representation in television .

Social media has been flooded with tributes and memories from fans, many of whom have shared how Carrie Bradshaw—and by extension Sarah Jessica Parker—helped them feel seen and inspired to live openly. LGBTQ+ celebrities and community leaders have posted messages of appreciation, praising Parker’s allyship and the show’s enduring legacy .

While the series is coming to an end, its impact is far from over. The conversations it sparked about friendship, identity, and the search for belonging will continue to influence both the entertainment industry and LGBTQ+ culture. As Parker’s farewell post makes clear, the shared experiences and connections forged through ‘Sex and the City’ will “live on in the hearts of all who found a piece of themselves in Carrie’s world” .

As one of television’s most iconic characters takes her final bow, the LGBTQ+ community and allies celebrate a legacy of empowerment, visibility, and acceptance. Sarah Jessica Parker’s emotional goodbye is more than just a farewell to Carrie Bradshaw—it is a tribute to everyone who found hope, laughter, and courage in her journey.