Mel Gibson apologizes after mocking sign language interpreter

Actor Mel Gibson has issued an apology following backlash from his behavior at Fan Expo Canada in Toronto. During a career Q&A session, video footage circulated online showing the 70-year-old actor making gestures that appeared to mock an American Sign Language (ASL) interpreter working behind him on stage.

The incident drew widespread criticism from social media users and observers, who characterized the actions as disrespectful toward the deaf and hard-of-hearing community. In response to the outcry, Gibson described the moment as “thoughtless idiocy” and stated that there was no malice intended behind the gestures. He explained that being thrust into the spotlight can sometimes cause his mind to wander, leading to spontaneous and poorly judged actions.

This incident marks another moment of public controversy for the Oscar winner, who has previously faced criticism for various statements and behaviors throughout his career.