# Mel Gibson Apologizes After Mocking ASL Interpreter at Fan Expo
Mel Gibson is facing criticism after appearing to mock an **American Sign Language (ASL) interpreter** during his appearance at Fan Expo Canada over the weekend.
The 70-year-old actor walked onto the stage and waved to the crowd before seemingly mimicking the interpreter’s hand movements and then pointing toward the audience.
Video of the moment quickly spread online, prompting a wave of criticism from social media users.
“This choice is bonkers to me,” one person wrote, pointing out that the interpreter was simply doing her job while the crowd welcomed Gibson.
Others described the actor’s behavior as “despicable” and “gross,” although some users defended the moment and praised Gibson as an “elite troll.”
Gibson addressed the backlash in a statement Monday, acknowledging that his behavior was inappropriate.
“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 said.
“There was no intended maliciousness attached, and I certainly apologize to anyone who was upset by it,” Gibson added.
The controversy comes amid Gibson’s long history of public scandals and offensive remarks.
In 2006, Gibson made antisemitic comments during a drunk-driving arrest. He later apologized, describing the incident as an alcohol-related relapse and saying he deeply regretted his behavior.
Years later, a recording surfaced containing racist remarks Gibson allegedly made during an argument with his then-girlfriend Oksana Grigorieva. Gibson argued that the recording had been edited and said the comments came during an extremely heated personal dispute.
In 2010, actress **Winona Ryder** also accused Gibson of making homophobic and antisemitic comments at a party. Gibson’s representatives denied her allegations and accused the actress of lying.
The repeated controversies have significantly affected Gibson’s reputation in Hollywood. A source told Page Six in 2008 that the actor had become a “pariah” within the industry.
Despite the backlash, Gibson has continued working in Hollywood. He is currently directing a sequel to his 2004 film **The Passion of the Christ**, with the new project filming in Rome and featuring a new cast.
The latest controversy has once again placed Gibson under intense public scrutiny, with his apology doing little to stop the debate surrounding his behavior.