“Sex And The City” star Sarah Jessica Parker backed out of two events Wednesday because of a “devastating family situation,” which was later reported to be the death of her stepfather, Paul Giffin Forste.
The 57-year-old actress was set to be honored at the New York City Ballet’s 10th Annual Fall Fashion Gala at Lincoln Center before reportedly backing out, and news of her stepdad’s passing surfaced. Forste, who was 76, had been married to her mom, Barbara Parker, for more than fifty years. He died on Wednesday, Page Six reported.
Parker’s family has since released a statement on the loss of their loved one.
“Our family is sad to announce that after an unexpected and rapid illness, Paul Giffin Forste passed away yesterday at age 76,” the statement read. “In his last moments he was surrounded with the love and gratitude of his adored wife Barbara of 54 years, and children, including Sarah Jessica Parker.”
“Paul will be remembered with the spirit of loving kindness which was his faith, his special delight in his 13 grandchildren, and his sustained belief in making the world a more charitable, tolerant, and beautiful place for all,” the statement added.
The superstar actress not only missed the gala but a global virtual press conference for “Hocus Pocus 2” as well. Parker’s rep confirmed to the outlet that her absence at both events was due to a “family emergency” but didn’t elaborate on what that was.
A person attending the New York Ballet 2022 event previously told Page Six that as soon as the “Failure To Launch” star arrived, she left. A speaker at the gala reportedly told the audience that she had to back out because of a “sudden devastating family situation.”
Sarah Jessica Parker Announces Death of Father: 'He Was Surrounded with Love and Gratitude' https://t.co/9qwXfV2duM
— People (@people) September 29, 2022
News of her family’s loss comes just a day after the premiere of the long-awaited “Hocus Pocus 2,” a sequel to Disney’s 1993 hit, “Hocus Pocus.” Parker, Bette Midler, and Kathy Najimy all returned for the Halloween-themed movie that hits the Disney+ streaming site on Friday, September 30.
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