Podcast Title: Are You A Charlotte?
Host/Author: iHeartPodcasts
Episode: The Price You Pay with Molly Price... (S2 E2 "The Awful Truth")
Release Date: June 9, 2025
Introduction
In this engaging episode of "Are You A Charlotte?", Kristin Davis reconnects with longtime friend and fellow actress Molly Price, alongside special guest Ryan Seacrest. Together, they delve into the intricacies of the iconic TV show "Sex and the City," focusing particularly on the second season's memorable episode titled "The Awful Truth." The conversation blends nostalgia, behind-the-scenes anecdotes, and thoughtful discussions on themes that remain relevant today.
Audition Stories and Early Days [04:03 - 07:18]
The episode kicks off with Kristin Davis and Molly Price reminiscing about their college days and the rigorous training they underwent at Rutgers University's Ma Grove School of the Arts under the mentorship of Bill Esper.
Molly Price shares, "We were a small part of Rutgers... studying with an amazing teacher named Bill Esper." (07:00)
Ryan Seacrest reflects on his nervousness during auditions, saying, "I was terrified." (05:59) and further elaborates on his initial reluctance to audition for a show named "Sex and the City," given his background as a "recovering Catholic."
Discussion of Specific Episode: "The Awful Truth" [07:18 - 54:19]
Plot Overview
The trio provides a detailed breakdown of "The Awful Truth," highlighting key storylines and character developments. They discuss Charlotte York's struggles in her abusive marriage and the comedic yet poignant ways the show addresses sensitive topics.
Molly Price comments on her character Susan Sharon, stating, "Did you think that?" (13:52), referring to Charlotte's attempts to infuse humor into a toxic relationship.
Ryan Seacrest adds, "He was terrible, but at the same time, I will not remember that actor's name." (14:04), emphasizing the show's balance between drama and comedy.
Character Relationships and Dynamics
A significant portion of the discussion centers around the dynamics between Charlotte, her husband Neil Jones (played by Neil Pepe), and other main characters like Carrie, Miranda, and Samantha.
Molly Price highlights Charlotte's emission of strength and resilience, saying, "She's such a strong [character] throughout the whole plot of this episode." (16:50)
Ryan Seacrest reminisces about scenes where his character struggles with his domineering husband, adding humor by noting, "It's not, like, subtle... he was comedically short compared to me." (15:17)
Themes and Insights
The hosts delve into the show's impact on conversations about women's relationships and sexuality. They explore how "Sex and the City" was groundbreaking in bringing previously taboo topics to the forefront with both humor and sensitivity.
Molly Price remarks, "It's very true to life... women talk about these things together." (29:55)
Ryan Seacrest discusses the normalization of abuse in relationships portrayed in the show, stating, "If you grow up in a household where people yell at each other... it becomes normalized." (14:04)
Filming Anecdotes and Behind-the-Scenes Stories [07:18 - 54:19]
The conversation transitions to behind-the-scenes stories from filming "The Awful Truth." Kristin, Ryan, and Molly share amusing and heartfelt anecdotes about shooting scenes, dealing with on-set challenges, and the camaraderie among the cast.
Ryan Seacrest jokes about his character trying to stay awake on a plane, saying, "He says, 'I'm on London time,' and shouts at Carrie." (18:07)
Molly Price reflects on the difficulty of filming scenes that required eating on camera, noting, "It's so hard to eat and be funny and not look like an animal." (31:01)
They also discuss memorable locations, such as the ABC Carpet and Home store, and the evolution of New York City since the show's airing.
Molly Price shares, "When we do get a nice wide shot of the streets, it's so evocative... how empty it looks." (56:50)
Themes of Friendship and Support [38:03 - 54:19]
A heartfelt segment focuses on the support characters provide each other through personal struggles. The trio discusses episodes where characters seek advice and lean on their friendships for strength.
Molly Price emphasizes the importance of honest conversations among friends, saying, "I'd rather someone be honest with me than be careful." (19:47)
Ryan Seacrest adds, "Happy endings all around... everybody gets what they need." (54:13), highlighting the show's optimistic outlook despite its challenges.
Conclusion and Reflections [54:19 - End]
As the episode wraps up, Kristin, Ryan, and Molly reflect on the enduring legacy of "Sex and the City" and its relevance in today's societal discourse. They express gratitude for the opportunity to revisit these stories and share their experiences with listeners.
Molly Price concludes with, "It's been so much fun talking to Molly Price." (57:37), expressing excitement for future episodes that continue to explore the show's influence.
Notable Quotes with Timestamps
- Molly Price: "We were a small part of Rutgers... studying with an amazing teacher named Bill Esper." (07:00)
- Ryan Seacrest: "I was terrified." (05:59)
- Molly Price: "She's such a strong [character] throughout the whole plot of this episode." (16:50)
- Ryan Seacrest: "It's not, like, subtle... he was comedically short compared to me." (15:17)
- Molly Price: "It's very true to life... women talk about these things together." (29:55)
- Ryan Seacrest: "If you grow up in a household where people yell at each other... it becomes normalized." (14:04)
- Molly Price: "It's so hard to eat and be funny and not look like an animal." (31:01)
- Molly Price: "I'd rather someone be honest with me than be careful." (19:47)
- Ryan Seacrest: "Happy endings all around... everybody gets what they need." (54:13)
- Molly Price: "It's been so much fun talking to Molly Price." (57:37)
Final Thoughts
This episode of "Are You A Charlotte?" offers a rich tapestry of memories, insights, and thoughtful discussions that not only celebrate the beloved characters of "Sex and the City" but also examine the show's profound impact on conversations about women's lives, relationships, and sexuality. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to the series, Kristin Davis and her guests provide a compelling narrative that bridges the past and present with humor, heart, and optimism.
