Yes, Mr. Big, whose real name is John James Preston, dies in the first episode of the Sex and the City reboot, And Just Like That…. His sudden death from a heart attack serves as the catalyst for much of the storyline that unfolds throughout the series.
The Shocking Death and Its Aftermath
The premiere episode of And Just Like That… opens with the familiar trio—Carrie Bradshaw, Miranda Hobbes, and Charlotte York Goldenblatt—navigating life in their 50s. Amidst the laughter and familiar banter, the episode takes a devastating turn when Carrie returns home to find Big collapsed after completing a Peloton workout. Despite her frantic efforts to revive him, he dies in her arms.
This unexpected death sent shockwaves through the fanbase, sparking intense debate and discussions about the creative choices made by the showrunners. While some appreciated the realism of grappling with loss in later life, others felt that Big’s death was a disservice to the beloved character and his complex relationship with Carrie. The episode’s immediate aftermath focused on Carrie’s grief and the logistical challenges of planning a funeral and dealing with Big’s estate.
Analyzing the Narrative Impact of Big’s Death
Big’s death isn’t merely a plot point; it’s a foundational element of the reboot’s narrative. It forces Carrie to confront the realities of widowhood, navigate unfamiliar emotional terrain, and redefine her identity after decades of being defined, in part, by her relationship with him. The series explores how grief affects her friendships, her work, and her overall outlook on life. It allows the show to delve into themes of aging, mortality, and the enduring power of female friendship in the face of adversity.
The absence of Big also opens the door for new romantic possibilities for Carrie, a controversial aspect of the reboot that continues to generate discussion. The show’s exploration of her subsequent relationships aims to demonstrate her capacity for growth and resilience, even after experiencing profound loss. Ultimately, Big’s death serves as a catalyst for Carrie’s evolution as a character and provides a fresh perspective on the familiar world of Sex and the City.
Frequently Asked Questions About Mr. Big’s Death
Here are some frequently asked questions addressing the circumstances, reactions, and long-term consequences of Big’s death in And Just Like That…:
Question 1: What specifically caused Mr. Big’s heart attack?
Answer: The immediate cause of Mr. Big’s heart attack was attributed to his rigorous Peloton workout. While the show was later criticized for its portrayal of Peloton, the narrative implied that his history of heart issues, combined with the strenuous exercise, triggered the fatal event. He explicitly mentions having heart problems in earlier episodes, subtly foreshadowing his demise.
Question 2: How did Carrie react to Big’s death?
Answer: Carrie’s reaction to Big’s death was portrayed as a state of shock and disbelief. She was understandably devastated and struggled to process the sudden loss. The show depicted her grief in various ways, including her inability to sleep, her difficulty making decisions, and her reliance on her friends for support. Her emotional journey following Big’s death became a central theme of the series.
Question 3: What was the public’s reaction to Mr. Big’s death?
Answer: The public reaction to Mr. Big’s death was largely divided. Many fans were saddened by the loss of a beloved character and felt that it was an unnecessary and cruel twist. Others appreciated the show’s willingness to explore difficult topics like grief and mortality. Some criticized the way his death was handled, particularly the association with Peloton, while others defended the creative choice as a realistic portrayal of life’s unpredictable nature.
Question 4: Did Chris Noth, the actor who played Mr. Big, know about his character’s death beforehand?
Answer: Yes, Chris Noth was informed about Mr. Big’s death before filming began. He reportedly had mixed feelings about it but ultimately understood the narrative purpose it served. He also filmed a cameo appearance for a later episode, which was eventually cut following allegations of sexual assault against him.
Question 5: How did Big’s death affect Carrie’s financial situation?
Answer: Big’s death initially created some financial uncertainty for Carrie. It was revealed that he had left a significant portion of his assets to his ex-wife, Natasha Naginsky, which Carrie found both surprising and upsetting. This situation forced Carrie to navigate complex legal and financial matters, adding another layer of stress to her already challenging situation. Eventually, Natasha settles the situation, allowing Carrie to retain her apartment.
Question 6: What impact did Big’s death have on Miranda and Charlotte?
Answer: Big’s death deeply affected Miranda and Charlotte, reminding them of their own mortality and the importance of cherishing their relationships. They rallied around Carrie, providing emotional support and practical assistance during her time of need. The experience also prompted them to reflect on their own lives, marriages, and personal goals. It further solidified the enduring bond of their friendship.
Question 7: Does Big appear in And Just Like That… beyond the first episode?
Answer: While Big dies in the first episode, he does reappear in flashbacks throughout the series. These flashbacks are used to provide context for Carrie’s grief and to remind viewers of their relationship’s history. His presence, even in memory, continues to influence Carrie’s decisions and actions.
Question 8: What role did Peloton play in the controversy surrounding Big’s death?
Answer: The use of a Peloton bike in the scene leading to Big’s death sparked controversy due to the negative association it created with the brand. Peloton initially approved the usage of their bike but claimed they were unaware of the specific plot details. The company’s stock price subsequently declined, and they issued a statement emphasizing the importance of consulting with a doctor before engaging in strenuous exercise.
Question 9: How does Carrie move on after Big’s death?
Answer: Carrie’s journey to move on after Big’s death is a central theme of And Just Like That…. She attends grief counseling, explores new hobbies and interests, and eventually begins dating again. While she never forgets Big, she gradually learns to live with her grief and embrace new possibilities for happiness. The process is neither linear nor easy, but it demonstrates her resilience and capacity for growth.
Question 10: Did Big’s death improve or detract from the overall quality of And Just Like That…?
Answer: Whether Big’s death improved or detracted from the overall quality of And Just Like That… is a matter of subjective opinion. Some argue that it provided a necessary catalyst for exploring new themes and character development. Others believe that it was a gratuitous and unnecessary plot device that diminished the legacy of the original Sex and the City. Ultimately, the effectiveness of this narrative choice is a matter of personal preference.
Question 11: What was the significance of the pear-shaped diamond ring that Big gave Carrie?
Answer: The pear-shaped diamond ring that Big gave Carrie wasn’t an engagement ring, but rather a statement of commitment and partnership. It represented his understanding of her unique style and his desire to be with her on her own terms. After his death, the ring becomes a powerful symbol of their relationship and a reminder of the love they shared. It’s eventually repurposed into a necklace, symbolizing a new chapter in her life while still honoring his memory.
Question 12: How does Big’s death compare to other significant character deaths in television history?
Answer: Big’s death, while shocking to Sex and the City fans, mirrors other significant character deaths in television history that have been used to propel narratives, explore grief, or introduce new storylines. Similar examples include the death of Ned Stark in Game of Thrones or Denny Duquette in Grey’s Anatomy. These deaths, like Big’s, are often polarizing, eliciting strong emotional responses from viewers and influencing the trajectory of the series.