Sex and the City cast lead tributes to Willie Garson, dead at 57

Tributes have poured in for Sex and the City star Willie Garson, who has died at the age of 57. The actor played talent agent and Carrie Bradshaw’s BFF Stanford Blatch on the show, and was reprising his role for the forthcoming reboot, And Just Like That.

The SATC cast and crew have been leading the condolences. Cynthia Nixon, who played Miranda Hobbes and was also returning for the new series, wrote on Twitter: “So deeply, deeply sad we have lost @WillieGarson. We all loved him and adored working with him. He was endlessly funny on-screen and in real life. He was a source of light, friendship, and show business lore. He was a consummate professional – always.”

Kim Cattrall, who portrayed Samantha Jones – the only lead character not starring in the reboot – said: “Such sad news and a terribly sad loss to the SATC family. Our condolences and RIP dear Willie.”

Mario Cantone, who played Garson’s on-screen partner Anthony Marentino in SATC, shared a photo of the pair on Twitter, alongside the caption: “I couldn’t have had a more brilliant TV partner. I’m devastated and just overwhelmed with sadness. Taken away from all of us way too soon. You were a gift from the gods. Rest my sweet friend. I love you.”

Evan Handler – AKA Charlotte’s husband Harry Goldenblatt” – described Garson’s death as “a tragedy for the entire (Sex and the City and And Just Like That) family, for Willie’s family, and for the world”. He continued: Willie was a prince, the mayor of every group he ever existed within, and – most importantly – a parent. My heart grieves for his son.”

Garson’s son Nathen posted his own tribute on Instagram, writing: “I love you so much papa. I’m so glad you got to share all your adventures with me, and were able to accomplish so much. You always were the toughest, funniest, and smartest person I’ve known. I’m glad you shared your love with me. I’ll never forget or lose it.”

Sarah Jessica Parker and Kristin Davis, who played Carrie Bradshaw and Charlotte York respectively, are yet to make a public tribute. Both actors, along with Cantone and Handler, are set to appear in the reboot, which is currently in production.

Garson, who was born in New Jersey in 1964, was most famous for his role in SATC, but was also known for his performance in Little Manhattan and lead role in drama series White Collar. He also made appearances in Twin Peaks, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, and Friends, with film credits including There’s Something About Mary, Freaky Friday, and Groundhog Day.

His White Collar co-star Matt Bomer also paid tribute, writing on Twitter: “I love you forever Willie Garson. Rest in peace my friend.”

In a poignant final tweet, shared on September 5, Garson urged his fans to “be kind to each other, always”, adding: “Love to all. Approach kindness.”

Although his cause of death is yet to be announced, Michael Patrick King, the executive producer of SATC and its reboot, said Garson had been working “even while he was sick”. It’s unclear what will happen to Garson’s role in And Just Like That, which is mid-filming in New York.

See some of the tributes to Garson below.