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Buscemi: From Firefighter to Film Icon
13 Oct
Summary
- Buscemi's acting debut was in 'Parting Glances' in 1986.
- He played Mr. Pink in Tarantino's 'Reservoir Dogs'.
- Buscemi starred as Nucky Thompson in 'Boardwalk Empire'.
In 1986, Steve Buscemi, then a five-year veteran of Manhattan's acting scene, secured his first major role in the independent film "Parting Glances." This film realistically depicted the life of a gay, HIV-positive young man, a character luminously portrayed by Buscemi. He was a working-class New Yorker and a full-time firefighter before this breakout performance.
Buscemi's career progressed with memorable roles, notably as the jumpy Mr. Pink in Quentin Tarantino's 1992 crime film "Reservoir Dogs." His distinctive look and acting prowess also landed him the part of Carl Showalter in the Coen brothers' 1996 dark comedy "Fargo." That same year, he wrote and directed "Trees Lounge," further demonstrating his creative depth.
His range expanded significantly with his four-year portrayal of mob boss Nucky Thompson in HBO's "Boardwalk Empire," beginning in 2010. This lead role highlighted the authority and skill that had underpinned his earlier performances in cult classics like "Ghost World" and blockbusters such as "Miller's Crossing."
