Mel Gibson Apologizes for Incident Involving ASL Interpreter

Actor Mel Gibson has issued an apology following an incident at Fan Expo Canada where he appeared to mock an American Sign Language (ASL) interpreter. The event took place Saturday in Toronto during a panel at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre.

Gibson, who is 70, addressed the situation in a statement to Fox News Digital, explaining, “Sometimes when you get pushed out on a stage in a spotlight your mind is all over the place, and sometimes spontaneous thoughtless idiocy is displayed.” He added, “There was no intended maliciousness attached, and I certainly apologize to anyone who was upset by it.”

The backlash was swift online after Gibson participated in a panel titled “From Braveheart to Mad Max: A Q&A with Mel Gibson”. Many criticized his actions, with one user commenting, “Interpreter just doing their job, people clapping for you, positive vibes … Mel Gibson: makes fun of ASL interpreter for no reason at all.” Others reacted less strongly, noting similar actions by comedians and expressing that people were too sensitive.

Amid the controversy, a video circulating the internet showed divided opinions. While some found the actor’s behavior disappointing, claiming it mocked their language, others downplayed the seriousness of the incident, calling it one of the least controversial incidents involving Gibson.

In addition to addressing the incident, Gibson discussed his ongoing work on “The Resurrection of the Christ”. He mentioned that he’s actively involved in editing and post-production efforts for the film in Toronto.

Meanwhile, a separate announcement by former President Donald Trump last year revealed that Gibson, along with Jon Voight and Sylvester Stallone, were appointed as Special Ambassadors to Hollywood. The role aims to revitalize the entertainment industry, which Trump suggested had suffered losses in recent years. “They will serve as Special Envoys to me for the purpose of bringing Hollywood, which has lost much business over the last four years to Foreign Countries, BACK—BIGGER, BETTER, AND STRONGER THAN EVER BEFORE!” Trump stated.

Gibson expressed surprise at his appointment, noting, “I got the tweet at the same time as all of you and was just as surprised.” Despite his surprise, Gibson said he is prepared to assist in any way possible, joking, “Any chance the position comes with an Ambassador’s residence?”