Need a refresher on And Just Like That Season 1? Here’s a full recap of everything that happened to Carrie, Miranda, and Charlotte as they navigated love, loss, and friendship in their 50s.
When And Just Like That… premiered on HBO Max, it marked the long-awaited return of the iconic Sex and the City characters—Carrie Bradshaw, Miranda Hobbes, and Charlotte York—now navigating life, love, and friendship in their 50s. With fresh storylines, new characters, and a tone that mixed nostalgia with emotional depth, Season 1 laid the foundation for a modern continuation of the beloved franchise.
Here’s your full recap of And Just Like That… Season 1.
Carrie Bradshaw: Love, Loss, and Reinvention
The season’s most shocking moment happens early: Mr. Big (Chris Noth) dies of a heart attack in Episode 1, moments after a workout on his Peloton bike. Carrie (Sarah Jessica Parker) is devastated. The man she finally settled down with is suddenly gone, and she’s left to rediscover who she is without him.
Throughout Season 1, we see Carrie grapple with grief—delivering a heartbreaking eulogy, struggling to sleep in their apartment, and eventually deciding to sell it. She starts a podcast with nonbinary comedian Che Diaz, offering a modern voice on sex and relationships while trying to rebuild her own identity.
By the end of the season, Carrie spreads Big’s ashes in Paris, wearing a stunning fuchsia gown and symbolically closing a major chapter in her life.
Miranda Hobbes: Transformation and Turmoil
Miranda (Cynthia Nixon) experiences one of the most radical transformations in Season 1. Feeling stifled in her marriage to Steve and disillusioned with her corporate legal career, she goes back to school and starts challenging long-held beliefs about her identity.
Her journey takes a bold turn when she begins an affair with Che Diaz (Sara Ramírez), which sparks an emotional and sexual awakening. This storyline divided fans but undeniably marked a turning point in Miranda’s personal evolution.
She eventually ends her marriage and decides to follow Che to Los Angeles—leaving behind the structure of her old life for something uncertain and new.
Charlotte York: Holding On and Letting Go
Charlotte (Kristin Davis) remains the most traditional of the trio, but even she faces change. Now a full-time mom to teenage daughters Lily and Rose, Charlotte juggles school drama, gender identity conversations, and her own struggle to maintain perfection.
One of the more poignant arcs involves Rose expressing discomfort with traditional gender norms and choosing the name Rock. Charlotte tries to support her child while also navigating her own fears and societal expectations.
Despite her polished surface, Charlotte’s story reflects the broader theme of And Just Like That: even the most “put-together” people must adapt as life evolves.
Where’s Samantha?
Kim Cattrall famously chose not to return as Samantha Jones, but the character is not entirely absent. She exists off-screen in London, estranged from the group—especially Carrie, due to a falling-out over professional disagreements.
Still, Samantha communicates with Carrie via text throughout the season, and their emotional exchange after Big’s funeral is one of the season’s more subtle yet powerful moments. It leaves the door open for a possible return.
New Characters, New Stories
Season 1 also introduces several new faces:
- Che Diaz (Sara Ramirez): A bold, unapologetic nonbinary comedian and podcast host who becomes romantically involved with Miranda.
- Seema Patel (Sarita Choudhury): A confident real estate agent who befriends Carrie and adds new energy to the group.
- Lisa Todd Wexley (LTW) and Dr. Nya Wallace (Karen Pittman): New women in Charlotte and Miranda’s lives, expanding the show’s representation and storytelling perspectives.
And Just Like That… Season 1 sets the stage for a more diverse, emotionally complex evolution of the SATC universe. It’s not always lighthearted or smooth, but it’s an honest portrayal of friendship, change, and resilience.
Whether you loved or hated the changes, there’s no denying that the show sparked conversation—and kept fans curious about what’s next.
Ready for Season 2? Don’t miss our full recap of And Just Like That Season 2, plus updates on what to expect in Season 3.
And Just Like That… Season 1&2 are available to watch on Max. Season 3 streaming is starting on 29th of May.