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Blair Underwood’s journey with ‘Sex and the City’: A tale of choices and integrity
A career-defining decision
Blair Underwood, a celebrated actor known for his versatile roles, recently shared an intriguing anecdote about his experience with HBO’s iconic series, Sex and the City. During a career retrospective interview, Underwood revealed that he initially turned down an offer to join the show. This decision was rooted in his desire to avoid roles that perpetuate racial stereotypes.
The first offer: A role based on race
Underwood was first approached to play a character whose storyline revolved around Samantha’s curiosity about dating a Black man. Reflecting on this, Underwood said, “I actually did say ‘no’ the first time. The role was about Samantha being fascinated by dating a Black man and wanting to know if all the rumors were true about our anatomy. I said, ‘Listen, I’m honored, thank you, but I just don’t want to play a character based on race, on curiosity about a Black man.'”
A second chance: A role with dignity
A year later, the Sex and the City team reached out to Underwood again, this time with a different offer. Underwood’s first question was, “Well, is it gonna be about race?” The team assured him that race would not be a focal point. “They said, ‘No, no, no, we’re not even gonna mention race!’ And I think it really did only come up maybe once,” Underwood recalled. He eventually accepted the role of Dr. Robert Leeds, a character who was simply a doctor and a romantic interest for Miranda, without any racial undertones.
The character of Dr. Robert Leeds
Dr. Robert Leeds, portrayed by Underwood, was a charming and accomplished doctor who lived in the same apartment complex as Miranda. Their brief romance added a fresh dynamic to the show’s final season. Miranda, played by Cynthia Nixon, eventually ended the relationship because she was still in love with Steve.
A warm welcome from the cast
Underwood fondly remembered the warm reception he received from the cast, particularly Cynthia Nixon. “Cynthia Nixon could not have been sweeter. When I was cast in the role, she and all the other girls were doing a scene on the set. She called me and said, ‘We just wanted to call you and tell you that we heard you got cast, we’re all so excited you’re joining the show, and we just wanted to say welcome to the show when you get here.’ She’s just such a sweetheart, and she’s always been that type of person.”
Reflecting on the impact
Underwood’s decision to turn down the initial offer and wait for a role that aligned with his values speaks volumes about his integrity and commitment to meaningful representation. His portrayal of Dr. Robert Leeds was a testament to his belief that characters should be defined by their actions and personalities, not by racial stereotypes.
The broader context
The episode Underwood was originally offered remains a polarizing one in the show’s history. In the third season’s “No Ifs, Ands, or Butts” (Episode 5), Samantha dates a Black man whose sister disapproves of their interracial relationship. This storyline sparked discussions about the portrayal of race and relationships in mainstream media.
Personal reflections for enthusiasts
For fans of cinema and TV series, Underwood’s story is a reminder of the importance of thoughtful representation. It highlights the need for characters that reflect the diversity and complexity of real life, rather than relying on outdated stereotypes. Underwood’s career choices serve as an inspiration for actors and creators to prioritize integrity and authenticity in their work.
For those interested in exploring more about Sex and the City, you can watch the trailer here.
A note for music lovers
While this article focuses on Underwood’s experience with Sex and the City, it’s worth noting that the show’s soundtrack also played a significant role in its success. The music, ranging from iconic pop hits to soulful ballads, added depth and emotion to the series. For those looking to revisit the show’s musical highlights, you can find the soundtrack on Spotify here.
Final thoughts
Blair Underwood’s journey with Sex and the City is a powerful example of how actors can influence the narratives they are part of. By choosing roles that align with their values, they can contribute to more nuanced and respectful portrayals of diverse characters. Underwood’s story is a testament to the impact of integrity and thoughtful representation in the entertainment industry.
