The iconic actor was beloved for his role as Stanford Blatch, Carrie Bradshaw's sidekick and best friend in Sex and the City. He had recently been photographed filming scenes in New York City for the upcoming And Just Like That reboot in July.
The actor was due to appear alongside co-stars including Sarah Jessica Parker and Mario Cantone, pictured on-set below.
Catching his first major break with the role of Henry Coffield in NYPD Blue in 1993, Willie's career spanned decades. He enjoyed roles in everything from White Collar to Hawaii Five-O and the upcoming And Just Like That reboot.
Mario Cantone, who plays his on-screen partner Anthony Marentino on SATC, has paid tribute to his friend on Twitter.
“I couldn’t have had a more brilliant TV partner,” he tweeted. “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.”
The show's Executive Producer, Michael Patrick King, released a statement about the 'dark moment' for his SATC family.
“The Sex and the City family has lost one of its own. Our amazing Willie Garson,” Michael 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.”
While Cynthia Nixon, known to SATC fans as Miranda Hobbes, shared a touching tribute to their long-term friendship.
"We all loved him and adored working with him. He was endlessly funny on-screen and in real life," she wrote. "He was a source of light, friendship and show business lore. He was a consummate professional— always."
"My heart goes out to his son. Nathen, I hope you know how much he loved you and how proud he was to be your dad."
Rest in peace, Willie.
