Famous actor from ‘Fargo,’ ‘Big Lebowski’ randomly attacked in New York City

Actor Steve Buscemi, known for his roles in movies such as “The Big Lebowski” and the TV show “Boardwalk Empire,” is recovering after he was randomly attacked while walking on a street in New York, reports say.

NBC New York reports Buscemi, 66, was taken to Bellevue Hospital after the attack Wednesday for treatment for bruising, swelling, and bleeding in his left eye. Buscemi was walking on Third Avenue near 27th Street in Manhattan when he was punched in the face, ABC 7 reports.

Witnesses tell ABC 7 that Buscemi chased after his attacker but the suspect was able to get away. NBC New York reports Xavier Israel, 27, a homeless man, now is in custody in connection with the attack and has been charged with assault and harassment.

Buscemi’s publicist released a statement saying “He is OK and appreciates everyone’s well wishes, though incredibly sad for everyone that this happened while also walking the streets of New York.”

Deadline reports that actor Michael Stuhlbarg, who was in “Boardwalk Empire” with Buscemi, actor Rick Moranis, and reality star Bethenny Frankel have recently been attacked while walking in New York.

Buscemi has enjoyed a long career playing quirky characters in movies such as “Reservoir Dogs,” “Pulp Fiction,” “Fargo” and “Big Fish.” He recently appeared in an episode of “Curb Your Enthusiasm” during the show’s final season on HBO.