The groundbreaking TV series “Sex and the City,” produced by HBO, continues to be one of the most influential shows even years after its initial broadcast. At its heart are the strong friendships between four women: Carrie Bradshaw (portrayed by Sarah Jessica Parker), a stylish sex columnist; Miranda Hobbs (Cynthia Nixon), a driven lawyer; the sexually adventurous PR executive Samantha Jones (Kim Cattrall); and Charlotte York (Kristin Davis), a traditional romantic. Over six seasons, the show chronicles their journey through relationships, careers, obstacles, and adult achievements, with each other providing unwavering support throughout.
In my perspective, “Sex and the City” was a game-changer during its era, reshaping the depiction of women on television and defying societal norms. As a fan, I related strongly to the main characters, independent, empowered women in their 30s (and 40s) who weren’t shy about discussing intimate topics like sex. Their stories mirrored the complexities and challenges of dating beyond one’s twenties, resonating with many viewers. Despite being centered around love and intimacy, the show subtly communicated that life’s fulfillment could be found in various aspects beyond relationships.
Although some may argue that Sex and the City didn’t age gracefully in terms of certain topics it addressed and its limited diversity, it remains a significant cultural landmark. It spawned numerous other series in its likeness, such as Girls, The Bold Type, and Issa Rae’s Insecure. The SATC legacy persisted in 2021 with the revival And Just Like That… which follows the franchise’s films, continuing the storyline from where it left off.
Here’s a list of the top 10 most outstanding episodes from “Sex and the City,” arranged in descending order of greatness, out of a total of 94 episodes.
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In this compilation, we present you with the top 10 finest episodes of “Sex and the City” – all ranked from best to simply amazing. Out of a grand total of 94 episodes, these are our picks.
10
“The Real Me”
Season 4, Episode 2
Titled “The Real Me,” this episode is famously recognized for the moment when Carrie takes an embarrassing spill on the runway, with Heidi Klum casually stepping over her. Each character grapples with their own personal insecurities throughout the storyline. Carrie struts down the catwalk despite tripping, ultimately regaining her confidence and flair. Miranda learns to accept her sexiness. Samantha expresses her body pride through a boudoir photoshoot. As Charlotte embarks on a more introspective journey, she takes the bold step of examining herself closely in the mirror for the first time, including scrutinizing her own vulva.
From “Fashion Roadkill” to Memorable Role Model
The episode served as a reminder for women to never let their apprehensions, unease, or self-doubt hinder them from fully experiencing life. In essence, it was a celebration of self-love and acceptance. It truly demonstrated that it’s not your errors, setbacks, or awkward moments that shape you, but rather how you overcome these challenges.
9
“They Shoot Single People, Don’t They?”
Season 2, Episode 4
When Carrie receives an invitation for a photo shoot on the cover of a New York Magazine feature called “Single and Fabulous!”, she arrives much later than scheduled, clearly suffering from the after-effects of heavy drinking. The magazine ends up publishing the photos that were intended as tests, revealing a bare-faced Carrie with a tired appearance, puffing on a cigarette. Instead of honoring her, they criticize and embarrass her, renaming the issue to “Single and Fabulous?: Eat, Drink, and Never-Be-Married.” The provocative question mark causes her four friends to reconsider their lifestyle decisions and contemplate whether solitude is truly as fulfilling as it seems.
Never Wait for a Man to Do What You Want
The episode concludes as each woman rediscovers her personal strength and understands that she needn’t compromise or conform to societal norms in order to find contentment. In many ways, this was one of the initial instances where ‘Sex and the City’ strongly conveyed that solitude isn’t something negative. As Carrie eventually accepts being single by dining alone without any pretense or reading materials, she became a role model for countless women, encouraging them not to shy away from doing what they desire on their own.
8
“La Douleur Exquise!”
Season 2, Episode 12
1) Samantha manages public relations for a novel restaurant centered around S&M themes; meanwhile, Carrie analogizes her love life with Big (played by Chris Noth) to the repeated cycle of pain and gratification inherent in BDSM. Miranda uncovers an interest in intimate encounters in public locales. Pure-hearted Charlotte satisfies a foot fetishist’s desires for high-end shoes. The episode concludes with Big, yet again, causing Carrie emotional distress by nonchalantly announcing his relocation to Paris, without any thought given to her or their relationship.
The Pain of Loving Someone So Emotionally Unavailable
In SATC, ‘La Douleur Exquise’ stands out as one of the most poignant and resonating episodes for many viewers. When Carrie questioned whether she truly loved Big or was addicted to the anguish of yearning for someone inaccessible, every woman who has ever been in love could feel a pang deep within their heart. The agony Carrie experienced in the realm of love is all too relatable, and her decision to prioritize herself by ending the relationship with Big left fans admiring her strength. However, unfortunately, Big managed to reenter Carrie’s life later on.
7
“Coulda, Woulda, Shoulda”
Season 4, Episode 11
In “Coulda, Woulda, Shoulda,” Miranda learns that, surprisingly, she’s pregnant despite having a lazy ovary and Steve (David Eigenberg) having only one testicle left. She grapples with the decision of whether to terminate or raise a child. Simultaneously, Charlotte and Trey (Kyle MacLachlan) grapple with fertility problems. Carrie reveals her past abortion experience and decides to reconnect with the man she had a fling with years ago to catch up on his life now.
An Important Episode
The encounter allowed Carrie to release the embarrassment she had held onto about her past abortion and not informing her potential father-to-be. Additionally, it boosted her belief that she had chosen wisely. Sex and the City boldly discussed issues like bodily autonomy, reproductive rights, and abortion during a time when these topics were often viewed as inappropriate, thus helping to reduce stigma. The series’ portrayal of motherhood and fertility struggles also connected with many women. In summary, this is one of the most socially significant episodes of the show.
6
“Hot Child in the City”
Season 3, Episode 15
In this narrative, Charlotte and Trey attend couples therapy to address his persistent erection issues. Meanwhile, Miranda, diagnosed as a “tongue thruster,” undergoes orthodontic treatment at the age of 34, facing inconvenience and self-doubt. The most prominent storylines in the episode revolve around Carrie dating an immature man who continues to reside with his parents, and Samantha clashing with a pampered 13-year-old (portrayed by Kat Dennings), who demands public relations for her extravagant bat mitzvah celebration.
Girls Just Want to Get Stoned
Title “Hot Child in the City” offers fascinating perspectives on maturity and immaturity. In this episode, Samantha’s character arc unfolds beautifully, providing a glimpse into her past and shaping our understanding of her. At first, she envies her client’s wealth but soon recognizes that she was luckier due to having a real childhood rather than growing up too quickly with excessive privileges. As for Carrie, she learns that despite feeling disorganized frequently, her life is actually more organized than many others. This episode stands out as one of the most engaging and impactful, concluding unforgettably with Carrie, Samantha, and Miranda getting high from a stash Carrie stole from her recent ex-lover.
5
“Running With Scissors”
Season 3, Episode 11
In the ninth, tenth, and eleventh episodes of Season 3, Carrie reached her lowest point. She had been unfaithful to Aidan, who was an ideal partner, with Big, a man who was married and didn’t truly value her until he saw her with someone else. The relationship reached its breaking point in “Running With Scissors” when Natasha (Bridget Moynahan) returned home early and found Carrie still present in her apartment following a midday tryst with her husband. This led to a brief chase that ended with Natasha tumbling down some stairs and cracking a tooth.
In Which Carrie Realizes She’s the Problem
It was gratifying to watch Carrie acknowledge the repercussions of her actions, a rare instance in the series where she demonstrates self-awareness. Despite being the central figure, she’s not an infallible heroine, and it’s unusual for her to reflect on her behavior. The situation made her realize the extent of the pain she had caused others and herself. For viewers, this moment was a source of pride as she decided to part ways with Big (and confess to Aidan in the following episode). This episode also effectively used Samantha’s storyline to emphasize the significance of getting tested for HIV.
4
“A Woman’s Right to Shoes”
Season 6, Episode 9
At Kyra’s (Tatum O’Neal) baby shower, Carrie is requested to take off her shoes upon entry. Unfortunately, her expensive Manolo Blahnik stilettos worth $485 were stolen by the end of the event. Inquiring about their whereabouts, Carrie asks Kyra if they were found or if someone unintentionally took them. Kyra proposes to cover the cost, but is taken aback by the high price, implying disapproval of Carrie’s extravagant spending habits. Going a step further, she implies that Carrie’s life lacks significance in comparison to a mother’s, criticizing her lifestyle choices.
A Feminist Banger
After spending a considerable amount of money on celebrating Kyra’s traditional life events throughout the years – her engagement, wedding, baby showers – Carrie is rightfully annoyed. In a bold response, she leaves Kyra a message saying that she’s getting married… to herself! She’s also registered at Manolo Blahnik, ensuring she gets her coveted shoes in the end. This episode is cherished by the SATC fanbase for its portrayal of women who choose not to have children. Characters like Miranda and Charlotte show the immense joy some women find in becoming parents, but the show emphasizes that having children doesn’t prevent a woman from finding fulfillment.
3
“My Motherboard, My Self”
Season 4, Episode 8
In the whirlwind that is “My Motherboard, My Self,” I found myself immersed in Carrie’s tumultuous life. Post-key exchange with Aidan, she grapples with his presence, which leads to a heated spat when her laptop crashes, wiping out years of work. Instead of graciously accepting his aid, she lashes out at him, treating the hard drive as if it were her very essence, subtly hinting at her inability to see him as part of her future.
On a lighter note, Charlotte embarks on a redecorating journey for her penthouse, while Samantha serves up laughter when she experiences a humorous setback – or so it seems – regarding her sexual prowess.
However, the heaviest blow is reserved for Miranda, as she mourns the sudden loss of her mother due to a heart attack, a grief that resonates deeply throughout the series.
A Heart-Wrenching Episode
In this episode, we delve exceptionally deep into the character’s family lives, particularly Miranda, played brilliantly by Cynthia Nixon. Miranda’s performance is compelling as she grapples with both grief and the absence of a companion during this difficult time. However, when her friends rally around her, it serves as a heartwarming reminder that she’s never truly alone, hinting at the abundant love in life beyond romantic relationships. The power of friendship and family can indeed surpass romantic love.
2
“An American Girl in Paris: Part Deux”
Season 6, Episode 20
In the conclusion of the two-part series, Carrie travels to Paris with her artist partner, Aleksandr Petrovsky (played by Mikhail Baryshnikov). After overcoming breast cancer, Samantha rediscovers herself and reconciles with Smith (Jason Lewis). Charlotte welcomes Lily into her family, fulfilling her lifelong dream. When Steve’s mother suffers a stroke, Miranda decides to take on the role of caretaker, reflecting her deep affection for Steve and their loved ones.
The Perfect Ending to the Show
In “Part Deux,” Carrie discovers that her life in the City of Lights doesn’t meet her expectations and the man she moved there with isn’t her ideal partner. Remaining faithful to herself and her desires, she ends things with Aleksandr. Meanwhile, Big’s friends have encouraged him to win back Carrie. When he arrives in Paris, the narrative shifts towards a typical romantic comedy, but it’s delightful. Although some viewers might not think Big is the perfect match for Carrie, their conclusion aligns with their character development. The disclosure of his true name, John, brings their relationship closer to parity. The final scene shows Carrie reuniting with her friends at their diner, suggesting they’ll always be significant in each other’s lives, serving as each other’s biggest loves.
1
“Ex and the City”
Season 2, Episode 18
In ‘Sex and the City’, the four female characters confront their exes, however, the primary narrative revolves around Carrie’s turbulent relationship with Big, a cycle that perhaps should have concluded at some point. Despite ending things in the Season 1 finale, they rekindle their romance in Season 2, only to split up again shortly afterward. In the second last episode of the season, Carrie encounters a surprise when she bumps into him in the Hamptons with the 26-year-old Natasha by his side. The season ends on a frustrating note as Carrie attempts to reconcile with Big and move past their history.
A Melancholic, But Powerful Episode
Everything appears to be smooth sailing between Cosmos and Scotch, hinting at the extraordinary prospect that former lovers might become genuine friends, but then Big abruptly announces he’s engaged to Natasha, barely a few months after telling Carrie he couldn’t handle a serious relationship. Predictably, Carrie loses her cool right in the middle of the restaurant. The following day, she says a mixed-feelings farewell to Big outside the Plaza. This scene is one of the show’s most memorable, marking a time when Carrie showed significant personal development. Regrettably, Big would later reappear to cause more heartache for her.
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2025-05-10 02:55