Blair Underwood, the American actor celebrated for his extensive career spanning over four decades, has recently shared insights into his role on the iconic television series *Sex and the City*. Underwood portrayed Dr. Robert Leeds during the sixth and final season of the acclaimed show, which aired from 1998 to 2004. His character, a doctor for the New York Knicks, became romantically involved with Miranda Hobbes, played by Cynthia Nixon, until circumstances led her back to her previous partner.
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During a recent appearance on *The View*, Underwood discussed his past work as he promoted his memoir, *A Soldier’s Wife: My Mother, the Marvelous Mrs. Marilyn A. Underwood*. The book pays tribute to his mother, Marilyn Underwood, who passed away in 2020. In his memoir, which he narrates alongside his sister Marlo, he reflects on personal memories and challenges faced throughout his life.
While on the panel, host Alyssa Farah Griffin brought up Underwood’s role in *Sex and the City*, noting the show’s resurgence in popularity among younger viewers. She inquired about his children’s reactions to discovering their father’s connection to the series. Underwood replied that their friends have seen his performance, playfully adding, “They’re happy that their dad’s on this show, but they’re also like, ‘All my friends are telling me they saw your butt.’” This remark referred to a memorable scene where Dr. Leeds’ buttocks were featured, gaining attention for its boldness.
Underwood’s children—sons Paris and Blake, aged 29 and 24 respectively, and daughter Brielle, aged 27—have come to appreciate their father’s role in the beloved series. Their newfound interest in *Sex and the City*, which continues to captivate audiences, showcases the show’s multi-generational appeal. Underwood acknowledged the enduring legacy of the series, which has been revisited through various sequels and the recent revival titled *And Just Like That…*.
Reflecting on his experience with *Sex and the City*, Underwood expressed gratitude for having taken on the role, despite initially contemplating declining the offer. “That was a great experience for me and I almost didn’t do it, but I’m glad I did,” he stated in a conversation with *PEOPLE*. His openness to returning to the revival series, contingent on the storyline and character development, suggests a willingness to reconnect with fans and explore further narratives.
Though he was approached for a part in *Sex and the City* years prior—when one of the characters was exploring interracial relationships—Underwood declined the opportunity. He explained his reluctance to portray a role merely as a “curiosity” rather than a fully developed character. “I wasn’t interested in being a curiosity in the ’80s, ’90s, and early 2000s; I wanted to be a full-fledged, well-rounded character,” he stated. His eventual role as Dr. Leeds signified a shift towards more nuanced representations in media.
Underwood’s body of work is extensive, with notable appearances ranging from the television drama *L.A. Law*, where he earned a Golden Globe nomination, to impactful films such as *Rules of Engagement* and *Madea’s Family Reunion*. In 2020, he showcased his talent on the stage, earning a Tony nomination for his performance in *A Soldier’s Play*, demonstrating his versatility across mediums.
As *Sex and the City* continues to resonate with audiences both old and new, Underwood’s experiences reflect a broader shift in the entertainment industry towards more diverse and complex portrayals of characters. His contributions to the landscape of American television have left a lasting impression, and his willingness to engage with fans through modern platforms suggests that both he and the series will continue to thrive in popular culture.
Blair Underwood’s journey from a young actor making his debut in *Krush Groove* in 1985 to a seasoned professional with a rich portfolio exemplifies the challenges and rewards of longevity in the entertainment business. As he moves forward in his career, both as an author and an actor, audiences can look forward to more of his engaging storytelling and compelling performances in the years to come.