“Sex and the City” has become a cultural phenomenon since it first aired from June 1998 to February 2004. If you haven’t watched it, you might feel like you’ve been living under a rock or have a strong aversion to HBO. The series, revolving around four single women navigating romance in New York City, captivated audiences with its blend of drama, real-life emotions, and relatable characters.
The Allure of the Show
The show has left an indelible mark on many women’s lives, often leading viewers to become deeply engrossed in the characters’ dramas and triumphs. Fans found themselves nodding at the screen, identifying with the characters, and eagerly speculating about which one best represented their own personality. Here are some intriguing and lesser-known facts about the series that may surprise even the most dedicated fans:
Behind the Scenes Secrets
- Patricia Field’s Costume Designs: Patricia Field, the show’s costume designer from 1999 to 2004, is also known for her work on “The Devil Wears Prada” (2006). The iconic tutu that Carrie Bradshaw wore in the film’s opening credits was a $5 find. It now hangs framed in Michael Patrick King’s office.
- Secrecy Agreements for the Second Movie: Before filming the second “Sex and the City” movie, the cast, production managers, and editors were required to sign two-page agreements. These agreements imposed a hefty fine of $2.5 million for anyone who leaked plot details, underscoring the high level of secrecy surrounding the film’s production.
- Kristin Davis’s Family Secret: Kristin Davis once revealed that she never told her grandmother about the show, believing that her grandmother would not have understood it. As a result, she kept the title and premise of the series a secret from her.
- Donald Trump’s Cameo: Before he became president, Donald Trump made a memorable appearance in Season 2, where he exchanged glances with Samantha while dining at a restaurant. Trump was dining with his business partner, and Samantha was at the same restaurant.
- Sarah Jessica Parker’s Pregnancy: During the filming of the first episode of the new “Sex and the City” series in 2002, Sarah Jessica Parker discovered she was pregnant with her son, David. Feeling unwell, she asked her assistant to get a home pregnancy test.
- Kim Cattrall’s Book: Kim Cattrall, known for her role as Samantha, co-authored a book with her third (now ex) husband titled “Satisfaction: The Art Of The Female Orgasm.”
Fun Facts About the Show
- Shortened Season 5: Season 5 was shortened due to Sarah Jessica Parker’s pregnancy. Despite this, the show continued to deliver engaging content.
- Willie Garson and Sarah Jessica Parker’s Connection: Willie Garson, who played Stanford Blatch, was set up on a blind date with Sarah Jessica Parker years before “Sex and the City” was filmed. They have remained close friends, which is why Carrie’s encounter with Aidan’s baby in Season 6 feels so heartwarming.
- Fake Tiffany’s Window: In the episode where Trey proposes to Charlotte, a fake Tiffany’s window was used because the real Tiffany & Co. did not permit filming in their store. A Tiffany team member did approve the fake window before filming began.
- Soho House Scene: When Samantha runs into Phoebe (Geri Halliwell) on the street, they discuss Soho House, which, at the time, had Victoria and David Beckham inside.
- Carrie’s Most Expensive Dress: The most costly dress Carrie Bradshaw wore on the show was the Atelier Versace Couture ‘Mille Feuille’ gown. Featured in the penultimate episode set in Paris, it cost a staggering $80,000.
- Security Measures for Scripts: To prevent leaks, scripts were printed on special anti-scam security paper. If anyone attempted to duplicate a page, the words “do not copy” would print all over it, making it unreadable.
- Carrie’s Apartment Sale: In 2012, the apartment depicted as Carrie Bradshaw’s in the series was sold for an impressive $9.65 million.
- Magnolia Bakery’s Popularity: The Magnolia Bakery on 401 Bleecker Street in New York gained fame after Miranda and Carrie stopped by for a cupcake. The bakery now employs a bouncer due to its increased popularity.
- Pre-Nuptial Agreement: An honest lawyer drafted the pre-nuptial agreement that Bunny made Charlotte sign, which gave the plot a sense of realism.
- Sarah Jessica Parker’s Contract Clause: Unlike her co-stars, Sarah Jessica Parker had a clause in her contract stipulating that she would never appear nude on screen, which is why her character’s nudity is never shown.
These facts only scratch the surface of the rich history and behind-the-scenes intrigue of “Sex and the City.” Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a newcomer, the series continues to offer fascinating tidbits and memorable moments.
