Mel Gibson has apologised after facing criticism over an incident involving an American Sign Language (ASL) interpreter at FanExpo Canada in Toronto.
The incident happened on August 29, 2026, as Gibson took the stage for a career-focused Q&A. A video from the event later circulated online, showing the actor appearing to mimic the interpreter’s hand movements.
The clip quickly attracted criticism on social media. Gibson has since acknowledged the incident and said he had no intention of being malicious.
What happened to Mel Gibson at FanExpo Canada?
Gibson appeared at FanExpo Canada for a retrospective Q&A focused on his long film career.
As he walked onto the stage, an ASL interpreter was positioned nearby and signing for the audience. Video of the moment appears to show Gibson briefly making similar hand movements while passing behind the interpreter.
The short clip was subsequently shared across social media platforms, where viewers criticised the behaviour as insensitive and disrespectful.
The incident became the main talking point surrounding Gibson’s convention appearance despite the broader discussion of his career.
Mel Gibson issues an apology
Gibson addressed the controversy after the video began attracting widespread attention.
In a statement reported by entertainment outlets, the 70-year-old actor described the incident as “spontaneous, thoughtless idiocy”. He also said there was no malicious intent behind what happened and apologised to anyone who was upset by his actions.
His response did not dispute that he made the gestures. Instead, Gibson framed the moment as an impulsive mistake made while stepping onto a stage under the spotlight.
That distinction is important because the criticism centred on how the gesture appeared to viewers, while Gibson’s explanation focused on his stated lack of harmful intent.
Why the video sparked backlash
The controversy grew after footage of the moment spread online.
Critics argued that imitating an ASL interpreter can be viewed as making light of a language used by members of the Deaf and hard-of-hearing communities. Others criticised Gibson for making the gesture during a public appearance where the interpreter was working.
At the same time, the available footage does not establish what Gibson was thinking at the time. His subsequent statement specifically said that maliciousness was not intended.
As a result, the discussion surrounding the clip has largely focused on the difference between intent and impact.
Gibson discussed his Hollywood career at the event
Before the controversy took over online discussion, Gibson’s FanExpo appearance was intended to look back at his career.
The actor has been associated with major films, including Mad Max, Braveheart and the Lethal Weapon franchise. Reports from the event also noted that the Q&A gave fans an opportunity to hear Gibson reflect on his work in the film industry.
Gibson has remained active in Hollywood despite a career that has been affected by several controversies over the years.
Gibson’s Hollywood role adds another layer to the story
The FanExpo incident comes as Gibson continues to have a prominent place in Hollywood discussions.
In January 2025, then-President-elect Donald Trump announced Gibson, Sylvester Stallone and Jon Voight as special ambassadors to Hollywood. Trump said the trio would advise him on efforts to strengthen the American film industry and bring production back to the United States.
The appointment was notable because Gibson’s career had previously faced significant setbacks following controversies surrounding his conduct.
Reuters later reported that Gibson’s role as one of Trump’s Hollywood advisers continued to be referenced in discussions about U.S. film production and efforts to bring more entertainment work back to the country.
What happens next for Mel Gibson?
For now, the immediate issue is Gibson’s response to the FanExpo controversy.
His apology makes clear that he recognises the incident caused offence, while his explanation maintains that he did not intend to act maliciously.
The episode also demonstrates how quickly short videos from public appearances can spread and generate wider scrutiny, particularly when the footage involves a well-known celebrity.
Gibson continues to work as both an actor and filmmaker. His upcoming projects include The Resurrection of the Christ, a follow-up to his 2004 film The Passion of the Christ. The project has been developed as a two-part film, with Lionsgate attached as its studio partner.
For Gibson, the FanExpo controversy is now another public moment that has drawn attention beyond his work on screen. His apology may help address the immediate backlash, but discussion of the incident is likely to continue as the video remains online.