Former Saturday Night Live cast member Chris Redd was allegedly attacked on Wednesday night.
According to People, Redd was scheduled to perform a comedy set at the New York City Comedy Cellar in Greenwich Village. However, as he stepped out of a car around 9.40 pm, a ma who witnesses say was dressed like a security guard suddenly approached and punched him in the face, a DCPI spokesperson for the NYP informed People.
Witnesses also told TMZ that the alleged assailant attempted to snatch Redd’s neck chain, which fell apart on the street and was later retrieved by the 37-year-old comedian.
The alleged attacker fled the scene before police arrived.
The comedian was transported to Bellevue Hospital. The investigation is ongoing. The comedian’s team did not immediately respond to any requests for comments.
TMZ was the first to report the alleged assault, including a clip that showed bystanders helping Redd as blood from the purported assault splattered on the sidewalk and several steps leading down to the Comedy Club.
Christ Redd is famous for his appearance on SNL from 2017 to 2022. He revealed his departure from the comedy show ahead of season 49 – joining what many are calling the SNL mass exit of 2022.
“Being a part of SNL has been the experience of a lifetime. Five years ago, I walked into 30 Rock knowing that this was an amazing opportunity for growth,” Redd said in a statement.
“Now, with friends who have become family and memories I will cherish forever, I’m grateful to [creator] Lorne Michaels and to the entire SNL organization. From the bottom of my heart, I can’t thank you all enough.”
Besides SNL – which saw him step into the shoes of US Senator Cory Brooker, Kanye Ye West, and others – Redd is also known for his outstanding performances in TV shows such as Disjointed, Kenan, and Bust Down.
Chris Redd’s comedy special Why Am I Like This? is scheduled to premiere on Nov 3 on HBO Max.
