Candace Bushnell
'Sex and the City' author, cultural icon of 1990s-2000s
Candace Bushnell (born December 1, 1967) is an American author, columnist, and journalist whose novel 'Sex and the City' became a defining cultural touchstone of the 1990s and 2000s. Originally serialized in The New York Observer, her witty and candid columns about Manhattan dating culture resonated with millions of readers and were compiled into her bestselling 1996 novel. The 1998 HBO adaptation of the same name became a critical and commercial juggernaut, launching the careers of its cast and influencing fashion, language, and attitudes toward sexuality and feminism in popular culture. Bushnell's sharp observational humor and unflinching portrayal of female friendships and independence helped redefine what women's storytelling could be on mainstream television. Beyond 'Sex and the City,' she has authored several other novels including 'The Carrie Diaries' and 'One Fifth Avenue,' continuing to explore themes of urban sophistication and female agency. Her work has been credited with elevating women's voices in cultural criticism and entertainment, making her a significant figure in contemporary literature and media.
Arts & Literature
American
1967
Thinking about the name
Candace
Greek origin
“From the Ethiopic/Greek title 'Kandake,' meaning 'queen' or borne by queens of ancient Nubia and Ethiopia. Candace carries royal, regal associations and historical depth, while the English spelling has made it accessible and warm. The name balances sophistication with a friendly, approachable quality that made it popular across decades.”