Mel Gibson Apologizes After Appearing to Mock ASL Interpreter at FanExpo

Mel Gibson is walking back this misstep.

The Braveheart actor has issued an apology after seemingly mocking an ASL interpreter as he took the stage for a Q&A at FanExpo Canada on Aug. 29.

“Sometimes when you get pushed out on a stage in a spotlight your mind is all over the place,” Gibson said in a statement shared with E! News Aug. 31. “And sometimes spontaneous thoughtless idiocy is displayed.”

The 70-year-old added, “There was no intended maliciousness attached, and I certainly apologize to anyone who was upset by it.”

The moment in question from the fan event involves Gibson appearing to mock the movements of the ASL interpreter as he enters the stage behind her. 

The clip was soon shared to social media where it garnered criticism. One user called the interaction “casual cruelty” while another noted, “The way it would take absolutely nothing to just not do this.”

During the Q&A, Gibson reflected on some of his most significant roles, including in Mad Max and Braveheart. He also, according to the event’s website, sold autographed headshots and photo ops for $275.