[Spoiler alerts for the first episode of And Just Like That…] First, about that scene: The new HBO Max series didn’t waste any time bringing the drama. Mr. Big, the illusive Fairy Tale love interest played by Chris Noth, died in the premiere episode in spectacular fashion. Riding his Peloton, Mr. Big had a heart attack, and that was that. Fans were shocked. Mr. Big was a huge part of the story through all the original Sex and the City seasons, so to be killed off in the first episode wasn’t expected. Another thing that wasn’t expected was how Big’s death would influence the real world. Peloton’s stock prices immediately dropped more than eleven percent. No one wants to buy the bike that kills people, right? Peloton’s response — no doubt after some closed door panicking among the execs — was brilliant. With the help of Ryan Reynolds, Peloton successfully pinpointed the real culprit of Mr. Big’s downfall: his lifestyle. Exercising on the Peloton, they added, “may have even helped delay his cardiac event.” In this Peloton commercial, we see Chris Noth sitting on the couch in front of the fireplace with Peloton trainer Jess King (Jess was featured in the episode where Big died as the trainer he was following on while riding). “To new beginnings,” they toast each other. “You look great,” Jess says to Chris. “I feel great. Shall we take another ride?” he jokes back. The innuendo is obvious, and then the camera pans out to show two Peloton bikes behind them. Ryan Reynolds narrates: “And just like that… the world was reminded that regular cycling stimulates and improves your heart, lungs, and circulation, reducing your risk of cardiovascular diseases,” he says in the voiceover. “Cycling strengthens your heart muscles, lowers resting pulse, and reduces blood fat levels. He’s alive.” In all honesty, Reynolds probably wasn’t a necessary cameo. The ad idea has Chris North, clever writing, and is true (exercise is good for the heart people!) But with Reynolds’ smarmy voiceover, it becomes a hilarious work of art — and one of this year’s most influential, must-watch ads.
