Steve Buscemi: From Hollywood Star to Heroic Firefighter in 9/11 Recovery

Steve Buscemi, known for his Hollywood roles, has a profound connection to firefighting, having served with the NYC Fire Department. After the September 11 attacks, he returned to aid in recovery efforts, revealing the emotional toll it took on him. In a candid discussion, he shared his struggles with PTSD and the lasting impact of those five days at Ground Zero. Despite personal challenges, Buscemi remains committed to supporting the firefighting community through organizations that provide mental health resources. His journey reflects the human cost of tragedy and the resilience of those who serve.

By Narendra Chaudhary Nov 15, 2026, 00:00 IST

A Hero's Return to the Firehouse

Before gaining fame in Hollywood, Steve Buscemi was a firefighter with the New York City Fire Department, specifically with Engine Company 55. Although he transitioned to acting, his ties to firefighting remained strong. Following the tragic events of September 11, 2001, he felt compelled to return to his old station to support his fellow firefighters during the recovery efforts.

Buscemi's decision to volunteer was prompted by his inability to contact his former firehouse. Upon his arrival, he learned that five of his colleagues were unaccounted for, including a close friend. He then joined the recovery teams at the World Trade Center, dedicating five days to clearing debris and working alongside firefighters in extremely challenging conditions.

The Emotional Aftermath of 9/11

The Lasting Psychological Impact of Ground Zero

In the years following the tragedy, Buscemi has been candid about the psychological effects of his experience. During a 2021 episode of Marc Maron’s WTF podcast, he discussed his struggles with post-traumatic stress symptoms after his volunteer work. He described the difficulty of returning to normal life, often battling anxiety and depression, and finding even simple decisions overwhelming.

Buscemi recalled that the memories of those five days are still fresh in his mind. He mentioned that talking about September 11 often evokes a strong emotional reaction, taking him back to the recovery site. He acknowledged that this experience is a significant part of his identity, and he still feels emotional when reflecting on that time, recognizing it as an integral part of who he is.

Advocacy for Firefighters

Continued Advocacy for the Firefighting Community

Despite the personal struggles he has faced, Buscemi has remained closely connected to the firefighting community. He has actively supported those impacted by the trauma of their service, particularly through his involvement with Friends of Firefighters, an organization that offers vital mental health support and counseling to current and former FDNY members and their families.

While Buscemi has found considerable success in the entertainment world, his experiences at Engine Company 55 continue to shape his life. His honest reflections highlight the human cost of the tragedy and the lasting effects on those who stepped up to help in the aftermath. Through his ongoing advocacy, he stands as a dedicated ally to first responders dealing with the long-term consequences of their service.