The iconic “Sex and the City” universe is officially concluding its more than 25-year run, with star Sarah Jessica Parker and showrunner Michael Patrick King announcing the end of “And Just Like That…” after its third and final season. This marks a significant moment for fans who have followed Carrie Bradshaw’s journey for over two decades.

The decision to bring the beloved HBO series to a definitive close was a collaborative effort, as confirmed by King. He stated that discussions involved himself, executive producer Sarah Jessica Parker, HBO CEO Casey Bloys, and Sarah Aubrey, head of original programming for HBO. This collective agreement underscores a considered approach to the franchise’s legacy.

King, who has been instrumental in shaping the narrative arc of the “Sex and the City” and “And Just Like That” series, revealed his reasoning behind the timing of the conclusion. While crafting the final episode of season three, it became evident to him that this particular point in the storyline presented a “wonderful place to stop,” ensuring a cohesive and satisfying wrap-up for the TV show finale.

Sarah Jessica Parker, whose portrayal of Carrie Bradshaw has captivated audiences worldwide, shared a deeply personal reflection on the character and the franchise. She articulated that Carrie has been a dominant force in her professional life for 27 years, expressing profound love and acknowledging the complex relationship fans have had with the character – one of frustration, condemnation, and unwavering support.

Parker further emphasized the collaborative spirit with Michael Patrick King, stating that they both recognized this chapter as complete. She described the production of “And Just Like That…” as an experience filled with “joy, adventure, and the greatest kind of hard work,” performed alongside an extraordinary team of 380 talented individuals, including the brilliant actors who joined the cast.

The “Sex and the City” franchise, known for its groundbreaking narratives and fashion influence, has seen various iterations since its Emmy-winning debut series ended in 2004, including two feature films. “And Just Like That…” represented the most recent chapter, continuing the stories of its core characters while introducing new dynamics and perspectives, further enriching the universe.

Parker’s poignant announcement was accompanied by a carousel of nostalgic images spanning the entire franchise, showcasing core characters like Miranda (Cynthia Nixon) and Charlotte (Kristin Davis), along with original cast member Samantha (Kim Cattrall). The collection also featured Carrie with Stanford (Willie Garson), Mr. Big (Chris Noth), and Aidan (John Corbett), alongside “AJLT” additions Seema (Sarita Choudhury) and LTW (Ari Nicole Parker), whom Parker lauded as “most divine new connections.”

King also clarified the timing of the public announcement, stating that they intentionally delayed sharing the news until now. Their aim was to prevent the word “final” from overshadowing the enjoyment and anticipation of watching the current season unfold, allowing viewers to fully immerse themselves in the unfolding narrative without the weight of its impending conclusion. This strategic decision highlights a consideration for the fan experience, allowing for a pure engagement with the final episodes.