Sex And The City star Willie Garson has passed away.
The actor who was best known for playing Carrie Bradshaw's sidekick, Stanford Blatch, died aged 57, per his son, Nathen Garson.
Taking to Instagram yesterday (September 21st), Nathen wrote: "I love you so much papa. Rest In Peace and I'm so glad you got to share all your adventures with me and were able to accomplish so much. I'm so proud of you. I will always love you, but I think it's time for you to go on an adventure of your own.
"You'll always be with me. Love you more than you will ever know and I'm glad you can be at peace now. You always were the toughest and funniest and smartest person I've known. I'm glad you shared [your] love with me. I'll never forget it or lose it," he continued.
Per People, Garson — who is also known for his roles in Freaky Friday and Groundhog Day — passed away following a short illness.
The executive producer of the HBO series, Michael Patrick King, released a statement on Tuesday that confirmed that Garson had been unwell.
"The Sex and the City family has lost one of its own. Our amazing Willie Garson," King said. "His spirit and his dedication to his craft was present every day filming And Just Like That.
"He was there – giving us his all – even while he was sick. His multitude of gifts as an actor and person will be missed by everyone. In this sad, dark moment we are comforted by our memory of his joy and light."
A statement from HBO said: "Willie Garson was in life, as on screen, a devoted friend and a bright light for everyone in his universe. He created one of the most beloved characters from the HBO pantheon and was a member of our family for nearly 25 years.
"We are deeply saddened to learn of his passing and extend our sincere condolences to his family and loved ones."
Expressing his condolences, Garson's on-screen partner, Mario Cantone — who plays Anthony Marentino — tweeted that he "couldn't have had a more brilliant TV partner," adding: "I'm devastated and just overwhelmed with Sadness.
"Taken away from all of us way soon. You were a gift from the gods. Rest my sweet friend. I love you."
This comes after Garson was spotted filming with Sarah Jessica Parker in July for the upcoming Sex and the City reunion, And Just Like That.
Despite playing an openly gay character on Sex and the City, Garson identified as straight, and was actually set up on a date with his co-star, Parker, years before they starred in Sex and the City. He told Out Magazine back in 2000 that he and Parker "settled into being best friends, something I think really reads on the show."
Our thoughts are with Garson's family, friends, and fans at this time.
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