Sam Worthington is reported to have been arrested and bailed following an incident with a photographer on the street in New York City.

The Avatar hunk was apparently walking with girlfriend Laura Bingle in the Greenwich Village neighbourhood of Manhattan when she was allegedly "kicked" by a paparazzo.

And Sam, 37, is claimed by TMZ to have retaliated by punching the snapper in the face.

The NYPD has apparently confirmed that Sam has been charged with assault and released on bail, with an appearance in court to follow.

Meanwhile the photographer - a man named Li Shang - is understood to have been charged with reckless endangerment, assault and harassment - and to have been held in custody.