The highly anticipated And Just Like That season 2 finale premiered yesterday, August 24, and it did not disappoint. The episode answered some of the biggest questions fans had been asking, while also leaving us with plenty to think about.
Warning: Spoiler alerts ahead!
Synopsis of the And Just Like That Season 2 Finale
The second season of And Just Like That was marked by pivotal moments that left an indelible mark on the characters’ journeys. Aidan Shaw’s unexpected return to Carrie Bradshaw’s life, the unraveling of Miranda Hobbes’ relationship with Che Diaz, and the unforeseen romance between Seema Patel and Ravi Gordy all set the stage for the climax that unfolded during Carrie’s emotionally charged “Last Supper.”
As the season finale part one concluded, Aidan’s absence loomed large as he rushed to his son Wyatt’s side after a troubling incident involving drugs and alcohol. This absence served as a heart-wrenching reflection of the emotional distance that had grown between Aidan and Carrie over the years — their shared history now a bittersweet memory within their former home.
The finale part two swiftly picked up, revealing Samantha Jones’ triumphant return as she reached out to Carrie from London. Samantha’s eagerness to join Carrie’s “Last Supper” underscored the enduring bond that tied these friends together in their earlier years as they navigated life, love, and sex together in the Big Apple — despite their supposed fallout mentioned in season 1 of the Sex and the City reboot.
The ensuing evening brought forth a tapestry of emotions as friends faced their pasts and futures. From Miranda and Che navigating a post-break up friendship to Lisa Todd Wexley and Herbert Wexley dealing with a secret pregnancy turned miscarriage, moments of reconciliation and revelation colored the interactions as characters grappled with love, commitment, and self-discovery. Carrie’s poignant toast encapsulated the theme of letting go of expectations, paving the way for new beginnings.
Shortly after Carrie’s guests left the goodbye dinner for her infamous apartment, Aidan appears outside her window. In a quick turn of events, Carrie feels that Aidan might be ending their relationship when he shares that he needs to go back home to Norfolk, Virginia to be present for his boys. Quick not to be misunderstood, Aidan promises Carrie that it is not the end of the two of them. After Aiden takes a five year break from Manhattan to focus on being a father, their love story will continue once again — but this time in their new home in the City.
In the end, the episode’s closing scenes found Carrie on a serene Grecian beach, a metaphor for the boundless possibilities that await. This culmination of season 2 beautifully encapsulated the show’s essence — the interplay of closure and potential, threaded with camaraderie, laughter, and the *ever-present* cosmopolitans.
Most Talked About Moments From Season 2
The season was full of memorable moments, but some of the most talked about included:
- And Just Like That goes to the Met Gala: Fashion has always been integral to the essence of both SATC and its continuation. This essence continues as the characters grace the Met Gala in the season 2 premiere.
- The Wexley’s discuss racism: Addressing previous criticisms of its handling of race, And Just Like That season 2 confronts these issues head on. The show sheds light on racial disparities Herbert faces when trying to hail a cab, as well as cultural expectations from Herbert’s mother on his wife’s and daughter’s physical appearances.
- The return of Aiden Shaw: Fan-favorite ex-boyfriend of Carrie Bradshaw, Aiden Shaw, finally made his appearance as a character on the SATC spinoff. Not only does he make a cameo, but he appears to be becoming a main character — or at least a part of the plot line — as season 2 ends and we await season 3.
- Miranda navigates both divorce and break ups: This was a major moment for Miranda’s character in seasons 1 and 2, as she navigates a divorce with her then-husband Steve Brady and begins exploring her sexuality starting a relationship with Che, a non-binary comedian. Miranda ultimately has to face a break up with Che as she straddles the following question for both of her former lovers: To defriend or befriend?
- Charlotte’s struggles as a working mother-of-two: This storyline was relatable to many viewers, showcasing the challenges of balancing work, family, and self-care while discussing the gender norms that are present within many American households.
- The return of Samantha Jones: Kim Cattrall made a surprise cameo in the season finale, and it was the moment that fans had been waiting for, as Samantha made a nod to her “former” life with a SATC reference to Annabelle Bronstein.
Thoughts on the Season 2 Finale
The season finale was a satisfying conclusion to the second season. The episode finally confirmed that Carrie and Aidan are getting back together. However, when it’s revealed that Aidan wants to wait five years before they can be together, this leaves Carrie in a difficult position as she doesn’t know if she can wait that long.
The episode also saw Miranda and Steve reconcile their friendship — a scene that I think all of us were hoping would happen. They both agreed that they are better off as friends, and they vowed to support each other through thick and thin.
Overall, the season finale of And Just Like That felt like a fitting end to a season that was full of change, growth, and love. It finally feels like the show is getting back to its roots and making the full circle connections from SATC to present day, that many viewers felt were missing in season 1.
Will There Be a Season 3?
As previously reported by GRAZIA, the powers at HBO Max knew exactly what they were doing when they announced the reboot had been renewed for a third season a mere 24 hours before dropping the season finale of And Just Like That.
It will be interesting to see how the characters’ lives progress in season 3: Will Carrie and Aidan break their five year promise and finally get married? Will Miranda and Che get back together? What will happen to Charlotte and Harry amidst their working and parenting compromises? And will Samantha Jones make another cameo?
Only time will tell, but one thing is for sure: And Just Like That has become a must-watch show for both tried and true and brand new fans of Sex and the City; And we can’t wait for Manhattan’s favorite females to hit our screens once again!
