Additional Coverage:
- Mel Gibson Sparks Outrage After Mocking Sign Language Interpreter, Apology Falls Flat with Fans (parade.com)
Mel Gibson Faces Backlash for Mocking Sign Language Interpreter at FanExpo Canada
Actor Mel Gibson found himself at the center of controversy after appearing to mimic a sign language interpreter during a Q&A session at FanExpo Canada in Toronto over the weekend. Videos showing Gibson seemingly imitating the American Sign Language (ASL) interpreter’s gestures as he took the stage quickly circulated on social media, drawing sharp criticism from viewers.
Many took to X to express their disappointment, with comments highlighting the insensitivity of Gibson’s actions. One user wrote, “This choice is bonkers to me.
Interpreter just doing their job, people clapping for you, positive vibes Mel Gibson: makes fun of ASL interpreter for no reason at all.” Others described the behavior as immature or reflective of insecurity, with remarks such as “It’s mindless… strange behavior to see in an adult” and “He’s a ten-year-old boy who never grew up trying to be funny.”
The backlash extended further, with some former fans expressing dismay at what they saw as disrespect toward the deaf community. One wrote, “Wow, Mel Gibson mocking ASL to the deaf community in his fan meeting event.
This is quite disappointing, because deaf fans are there to support him, but now mocking deaf people.” Another sarcastically commented, “Good way to hype your new movie.
Go on stage and mock someone.”
In response to the growing criticism, Gibson issued an apology through multiple media outlets, stating, “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 emphasized that there was no malicious intent and apologized to anyone offended by his actions.
Despite the apology, many social media users remained unconvinced. Replies to the story shared by Variety included sentiments like “Apology not accepted,” “Accountability matters more than optics here,” and “Why didn’t he just wave to the crowd?”
This incident adds to a history of controversies surrounding Gibson, including a widely publicized antisemitic rant following a 2006 DUI arrest, leaked audio tapes from 2010 featuring racist language, past homophobic remarks in a 1991 interview, and allegations from actress Winona Ryder that he made offensive jokes at a Hollywood party in 2010.
As the conversation continues, this latest episode serves as a reminder of the scrutiny public figures face when their actions are perceived as disrespectful or hurtful to marginalized communities.