Mel Gibson apologises after mocking sign‑language interpreter at Toronto fan convention

At Toronto's FanExpo Canada, actor Mel Gibson apologized for mocking a sign‑language interpreter during his appearance, saying his behavior was "thoughtless idiocy".

Mel Gibson's apology

The 70‑year‑old star was scheduled for a Q&A session about his career, from Braveheart to Mad Max, when he walked onto the stage and began mimicking the event's American Sign Language (ASL) interpreter, who was providing translation for deaf and hard‑of‑hearing attendees.

Canada's accessibility legislation requires large public events to offer sign‑language services, and organizers typically coordinate with local Deaf advocacy groups to meet those standards.

Accessibility expectations in Canada

Clips of Gibson were filmed from multiple angles and spread online, prompting a wave of criticism. "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 told Variety. "There was no intended maliciousness attached, and I certainly apologise to anyone who was upset by it."

A similar incident at a U.S. comic‑convention earlier this year drew comparable backlash, highlighting growing expectations for respectful treatment of interpreters across North America.

The clip was shared alongside footage of fellow action star Alan Ritchson, who shook hands with a different sign‑language interpreter after his own Q&A at the same expo.

Gibson has appeared at a number of fan conventions this summer, with the events facing criticism for platforming the actor.

For decades, Gibson has been at the centre of multiple controversies, including a 2006 drunk‑driving arrest during which he made antisemitic remarks to a police officer, for which he later apologised.

He has also been accused of homophobic comments and was recorded in 2010 making abusive and racist remarks to ex‑girlfriend Oksana Grigorieva, claims he later said were edited. A domestic‑violence investigation was launched after Grigorieva's allegations, but it was dropped when Gibson pleaded no‑contest to a misdemeanor battery charge.

Actress Winona Ryder has said Gibson made antisemitic and homophobic comments in her presence at a party, a claim his representatives have called "100 per cent untrue".