Mel Gibson has apologised after video emerged of him appearing to mock a sign language interpreter as he walked on stage at FanExpo Canada, prompting widespread criticism online. The actor called the moment "spontaneous thoughtless idiocy" with no intended malice, and said he was sorry to anyone upset by it, as backlash also fell on the event organisers for hosting him.

The incident took place on 29 August during Gibson's retrospective Q&A at FanExpo Canada, an event where autograph and photo opportunities cost fans $275 each. Footage circulated widely on X, drawing comparisons with fellow guest Alan Ritchson, who was praised for shaking the interpreter's hand after his own session. The row comes as Gibson, previously the subject of controversy over antisemitic remarks made during a 2006 arrest, prepares for the release of his "Passion of the Christ" sequel, "The Resurrection of the Christ".