And Just Like That … Peloton Kills

At the end of the first episode of HBO’s limited Sex and the City revival series “And Just Like That…,” Mr. Big (Chris Noth) dies from a heart attack after his 1000th ride on Peloton. 

Oh, right, SpOiLeR aLeRt.

Normally, this would be shocking simply because a beloved main character has been killed off. Instead, people read the words “Peloton” and “heart attack” in the same sentence and leapt to the conclusion that Peloton is responsible for heart attacks. 

Peloton Stocks Tumble Like Mr. Big After A Ride

Peloton, a company already known for holiday controversies, saw its stocks tumble shortly after the episode aired last Thursday. Considered a “winner” of the pandemic for its strong sales over the past few years, the company reached a 52-week low at the stock market. 

Mind you, this is a fictitious character. Mr. Big isn’t real. His death isn’t real. And yet, Dr. Suzanne Steinbaum, a cardiologist and member of Peloton’s health and wellness council apparently felt it necessary to make a statement. 

“Mr. Big lives what many would call an extravagant lifestyle – including cocktails, cigars, and big steaks – and was at serious risk as he had a previous cardiac event in season 6. 

“These lifestyle choices and perhaps even his family history, which often is a significant factor, were the likely cause of his death. Riding his Peloton Bike may have even helped delay his cardiac event.” 

Guys, He’s Not Real. None Of This Is Real. 

Again, Mr. Big is not real. He’s a made-up character. Why should Peloton have to say anything at all? 

If a television character chokes on Chipotle is Chipotle going to have to release a statement emphasizing the importance of mastication or instruction on how to perform the Heimlich? 

In a creative effort to capitalize on people’s stupidity, Peloton released an ad featuring actor Chris Noth un-dying and ready to get back on the bike. 

You’d think a society so consumed with television would know the difference between real and fake. 

Or maybe they wouldn’t.