On September 22nd, 2021, “Sex and the City” fans everywhere mourned the loss of beloved actor Willie Garson, who played the coveted Stanford Blatch in the hit dramedy and its consequential films. The 1990s/2000s television hallmark celebrating female friendships and the power of passionate love lost one of its greats. Classy fashion icon, loyal confidante, and one of New York’s biggest gossips, Stanford Blatch, passed away mid-production of the show’s sequel, “And Just Like That.” Tearjerking goodbyes can be found on his costar’s Instagrams, as they mourn the loss of a true friend.
Stanford was arguably Carrie’s most consistent friend. Amidst the trials and tribulations of the columnist’s friendships with Miranda, Charlotte, and Samantha, Stanford was there to console her while confronting her. He kept Carrie in check through the highs and lows, and rock bottoms, of each of her many relationships, relaying the truth that she needed to hear without ever coming off as judgemental. Stanford provides a model of how a quality friend should act, so it’s only fitting to share some of his best quotes from the series. While most of these are simply amusing anecdotes, some of his best witty remarks can inspire us to live a little lighter, laugh a little harder, and love a little more
“Puberty is a phase. Fifteen years of rejection is a lifestyle.”
Stanford never shied away from sharing his insecurities in comical ways, teaching us all that it’s okay to not have it all together. More importantly, it’s okay to laugh at yourself when it all falls apart.
“We all judge. That’s our hobby. Some people do arts and crafts. We judge.”
In this crude yet iconic quote, we all feel Standard’s relatable appeal. Perhaps a little too blunt, Stanford lets us know he’s not above anyone else in New York City.
“How can you not have a shrink? This is Manhattan. Even the shrinks have shrinks. I have three. Yes, one for when I want to be cuddled, one for when I want tough love and one for when I want to look at a beautiful man.”
Back in the 00s before mental health was publicly discussed and supported, Stanford was open — and very honest — about his therapy sessions. Because who says only one therapist is enough?
“A New Yorker who does not take the subway is not a New Yorker you can trust.”
A simple rule for valuing the simple things in life. And for any New York aficionado, or any New York wannabe dreamer, this quote strikes a nerve.
“Oh my God … she’s fashion roadkill!”
In a trademark SATC moment, Carrie faceplants while walking down the runway, giving us a new definition of second-hand embarrassment. While the girls all gasp, Stanford blurts out this roadkill quip with exquisite timing.
“Carrie, don’t fall for him. He’s just another pretty face. He doesn’t love you like I love you. I knew this woman when she took the subway and wore Candies. I adored you anyway.”
Finally, my favorite remark. Sometimes, those three little words are all you need to hear to move out of the lusty fog that toxic relationships bring back into the unconditional love that Stanford Blatch endlessly gives.
To all my Standfords out there, I thank you. And to Willie Garson, I commend you. May he rest in peace, and may his timeless character continue to inspire for years to come.