Mel Gibson apologizes after allegedly mocking sign language interpreter at fan event

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Mel Gibson is apologizing after facing backlash over his appearance at FanExpo Canada in Toronto on Saturday, August 29, where he appeared to imitate the sign language interpreter during a Q&A, prompting criticism from social media users.

Gibson addressed the incident on Monday, August 31, apologizing to anyone who was upset by his actions. The apology comes as he continues promoting his upcoming movies, including the two-part sequel 'The Resurrection of the Christ.'

Mel Gibson apologizes after FanExpo Canada backlash

When the 70-year-old actor took the stage for a Q&A at FanExpo Canada, video from the event showed Gibson emerging from behind a curtain and briefly using hand movements that appeared to imitate the sign language interpreter standing on the platform.

He then took his seat in front of the audience. In the days following the appearance, social media users reacted to the incident, describing Gibson's behavior as "disappointing" and "casually cruel.”

Gibson issued an apology on Monday, August 31, addressing what happened during his appearance and acknowledging that his actions were thoughtless.

“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 in the statement and added, “There was no intended maliciousness attached, and I certainly apologize to anyone who was upset by it.”

During the FanExpo event, Gibson also reflected on his career while speaking with moderator Liam Crowley. He discussed movies including 'Mad Max' and 'Lethal Weapon' and teased details about his two 'The Resurrection of Christ' movies, the upcoming follow-ups to his 2004 biblical epic, 'The Passion of the Christ.'

Mel Gibson's 'The Resurrection of the Christ' sequel and Randall Wallace warning

Screenwriter Randall Wallace previously revealed a warning Gibson gave him ahead of writing 'The Resurrection of the Christ.' Wallace, teamed up with Gibson and his brother Donald Gibson to write the two-part sequel, which picks up where 'The Passion of the Christ' left off.

Speaking on Raymond Arroyo's podcast 'Arroyo Grande' in an episode released Wednesday, July 15, he recalled discussing the Resurrection with Gibson while they were promoting 'Hacksaw Ridge.' Wallace, who previously worked with Gibson on 'Braveheart,' 'We Were Soldiers' and 'Hacksaw Ridge,' suggested that the Resurrection was the story they needed to tell.

Wallace recalled Gibson telling him, “If we do this, it can’t be for the money, and it can’t be to get back at people that have hated us or wronged us or been unhappy with us.”

Gibson then warned Wallace, “You know, Satan’s going to come after you.” Wallace responded jokingly, “Well, you know, Satan doesn’t really care about Baptists" and added, “It’s really good when Satan can get a Catholic. We’re a dime a dozen.”

Meanwhile, Gibson and screenwriter Rosalind Ross separated after nine years together, PEOPLE confirmed last year. The former couple said in a joint statement, “Although it’s sad to end this chapter in our lives, we are blessed with a beautiful son and will continue to be the best parents possible.”