Mel Gibson Apologizes for “Thoughtless Idiocy” After Appearing to Mock ASL Interpreter

Mel Gibson is walking back this misstep.

The Braveheartactor 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 Maxand Braveheart. He also, according to the event’s website, sold autographed headshots and photo ops for $275.

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While Gibson has acted in countless films and television series over the decades, he recently earned a job he never applied for. 

At the beginning of 2025, President Donald Trumpnamed him, Sylvester Stalloneand Jon Voightas his “special ambassadors” to Hollywood, which the president called a “very troubled place.”

“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,” the 80-year-old wrote on Truth Social. “These three very talented people will be my eyes and ears, and I will get done what they suggest.”

Trump added, “It will again be, like The United States of America itself, The Golden Age of Hollywood!”

All three actors endorsed Trump in his 2024 race against Vice President Kamala Harris.

Following the news, Gibson noted that he learned of his appointment “at the same time” as the rest of the world.

“Nevertheless, I heed the call,” he told Variety in a January 2025 statement. “My duty as a citizen is to give any help and insight I can.”

He then quipped, “Any chance the position comes with an Ambassador’s residence?”

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