Mel Gibson apologizes after mocking ASL interpreter in viral video

Mel Gibson is apologizing after facing backlash over a video that appeared to show him mocking an American Sign Language interpreter during an appearance at Fan Expo Canada.

The 70-year-old actor and director attended the convention in Toronto on Aug. 29 for a Q&A about his career when the interaction occurred.

A video from the event shows an ASL interpreter on stage as Gibson is introduced to the audience. As Gibson walks onto the stage behind the interpreter, he turns toward the crowd and makes exaggerated movements with his hands before walking over to greet the panel's moderator and take his seat.

The brief moment drew criticism after footage began circulating on social media, with viewers accusing the "Braveheart" star of mocking the interpreter and making light of a language used by members of the deaf and hard-of-hearing communities.

Gibson addressed the controversy in a statement provided to USA TODAY, apologizing for his behavior and saying he did not intend to offend anyone.

"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," Gibson said. "There was no intended maliciousness attached, and I certainly…

Original source: https://www.usatoday.com/entertainment/