Gibson Says Stage Gesture Near ASL Interpreter Was 'Thoughtless Idiocy'
Mel Gibson issued a public apology after video showed him making hand motions as he passed an American Sign Language interpreter during a Fan Expo Canada appearance in Toronto. The actor said the gesture was spontaneous and not malicious, but critics on social media expressed disappointment and anger over the incident. The apology comes as Gibson prepares to release his two-part film 'The Resurrection of Christ' in 2027 and 2028.
The incident occurred during Gibson’s Saturday Q&A at Fan Expo Canada, held at the Metro Toronto Convention Center. Video shows him making hand motions as he passed the interpreter onstage. Gibson’s apology, issued Monday, described the act as “spontaneous thoughtless idiocy” with no malicious intent, though social media users voiced disappointment, with one calling the mockery of sign language “disappointing” and another labeling him a “jerk.” The apology arrives as Gibson and Lionsgate prepare to release *The Resurrection of Christ* in two parts, slated for May 2027 and May 2028. Notably, actor Alan Ritchson was separately filmed warmly shaking hands with the same interpreter after his own session, contrasting Gibson’s behavior.
This incident could reinforce ongoing public scrutiny of Gibson’s past controversies, potentially affecting audience reception of his upcoming religious films. For the Deaf and hard-of-hearing community, such gestures may deepen feelings of marginalization, especially as ASL recognition grows. The contrast with Ritchson’s respectful interaction may shape celebrity accountability narratives, prompting fans to weigh artistic legacy against personal conduct. However, Gibson’s quick apology might limit lasting damage, though social media’s memory could linger into the films’ release cycle.