Over the weekend, actor Michael Stuhlbarg was captured on dramatic video chasing after a homeless man who allegedly attacked him with a rock near Central Park. Surveillance footage obtained by The Post showed the “Boardwalk Empire” actor running in a bike lane after the attacker, identified as Xavier Israel, 27, sprinted past on the sidewalk. The 55-year-old actor, who was preparing for the first preview of his upcoming Broadway production “Patriots,” was walking near East 90th and East Drive when Israel struck him in the back of the neck with a rock, causing an abrasion. Israel, who is homeless, has a history of arrests for assaults and a robbery in January 2022.
The incident occurred just under 2 miles from the location where Stuhlbarg’s character, Arnold Rothstein, was fatally shot on the popular HBO drama, “Boardwalk Empire.” Stuhlbarg was on his way to the first preview of “Patriots” when the attack took place. The video footage captured the actor chasing after Israel, showing Stuhlbarg in pursuit of his attacker after the assault near Central Park. The surveillance footage gave a glimpse of the dramatic incident that unfolded as the actor defended himself against the homeless man.
Police and sources confirmed that Israel has a history of violent offenses, including two assaults and a robbery that all occurred in January 2022. Stuhlbarg, known for his roles in film and television, found himself in a real-life confrontation near Central Park as he was targeted by the homeless man. The actor’s response to the attack was captured on video, showing him chasing after his attacker in a bike lane after being struck with a rock in the back of his neck.
The attack on Stuhlbarg by the homeless man near Central Park highlights the dangers faced by individuals in New York City, even in popular areas like the park. The incident occurred as Stuhlbarg was walking near East 90th and East Drive, where Israel allegedly struck him with a rock. Stuhlbarg’s upcoming Broadway production, “Patriots,” did not seem to be affected by the attack as he continued with the scheduled first preview despite the dramatic encounter near Central Park. The surveillance footage captured the actor’s pursuit of the homeless man following the assault.
Faced with the shocking attack near Central Park, Stuhlbarg reacted by chasing after his attacker in a dramatic pursuit captured on video. The incident highlighted the dangers faced by individuals, including well-known actors like Stuhlbarg, as they navigate the city streets. The footage showed Stuhlbarg running in a bike lane after Israel, who had allegedly attacked him with a rock. Despite the unexpected confrontation, Stuhlbarg continued his preparations for the first preview of “Patriots” on Broadway, demonstrating resilience in the face of adversity near Central Park. The actor’s response to the attack underscored the importance of remaining vigilant and prepared for unexpected incidents in bustling urban environments like New York City.