The Atelier and actor Mekhi Pfifter
Former “E.R.” and “8 Mile” star Mekhi Pfifer has temporarily returned to the East Coast and is renting at the Atelier at 635 West 42nd Street while starring on Broadway, a source with knowledge of the move told The Real Deal.
The actor and Harlem native is currently in rehearsals for “Stick Fly,” a play by American writer Lydia Diamond, set to begin previews Nov. 18 at the Cort Theatre at 138 West 48th Street. The show is being produced by Alicia Keys, who is also composing an original score for the production.
Dan Neiditch, president of River 2 River Realty, the firm handling rentals and sales for the building, would not confirm that Pfifer was renting at the building, but said the Atelier is often a top choice for Hollywood stars temporarily in town while treading the boards on Broadway.
“We have a lot of celebrity clientele who are attracted to the Atelier for the amazing views, amenities and our security,” he said. “Also, the proximity of our location for Broadway show stars makes it a very convenient luxury rental.”
The last unit to go off the rental market at the building, four days ago, was a two-bedroom, two-bathroom unit, which was asking $5,999 per month, according to Streeteasy.com. No word from Neiditch on whether that was the apartment Pfifer, who regularly lives in Los Angeles, rented.
Other celebrities that have reportedly lived in the building include Lindsay Lohan and “Entourage” actress Dania Ramirez. Brendan Fraser, star of movies such as “The Mummy” and “George of the Jungle” stayed in the building while starring alongside Denis O’Hare in “Elling” at the Ethel Barrymore Theatre last year.
The Atelier has a 24-hour doorman, an indoor pool, a 12,000-square-foot health club, a rooftop lounge, basketball court, tennis court, movie theatre and complimentary daily breakfast.
Pfifer’s press representative was not immediately available for comment.