(Cover) - EN Showbiz - Mel Gibson has addressed his legal and personal issues for the first time in a candid interview.
The actor, who is currently promoting his comeback film The Beaver, spoke openly about the well-publicised outbursts that nearly cost him his career and his reputation. The Hollywood star was arrested for Driving under the Influence (DUI) in 2006, and a leaked report showed he made anti-Semitic remarks to a police officer. In 2010, he narrowly avoided jail when his ex-girlfriend Oksana Grigorieva alleged Mel had assaulted her during a vicious argument. A number of recordings of the incident made by Oksana have been leaked online, and apparently show Mel using violent, racist and abusive language towards her.
Ive never treated anyone badly or in a discriminatory way based on their gender, race, religion or sexuality - period. I dont blame some people for thinking that though, from the garbage they heard on those leaked tapes, which have been edited, he told American website Deadlinehollywood.com. You have to put it all in the proper context of being in an irrationally, heated discussion at the height of a breakdown, trying to get out of a really unhealthy relationship. Its one terribly, awful moment in time, said to one person, in the span of one day and doesnt represent what I truly believe or how Ive treated people my entire life.
Who anticipates being recorded? Who anticipates that? Who could anticipate such a personal betrayal?'
Despite feeling he was betrayed when his arguments with Oksana were recorded and made public, the 55-year-old insisted he regrets his outbursts.
Speaking about how his legal and personal issues have affected his popularity with the audience, Mel claims he doesnt care if ever lands another movie role again.
I dont care if I dont act anymore. I could easily not act again. Its not a problem. Im going to do something now because I want to do it and because its fun, he said.
Mels upcoming movie The Beaver is widely regarded as the project that could help him make a comeback. Directed by his long-standing friend Jodie Foster, some critics say he has delivered his best performance yet.
Oscar winner Jodie was amongst the few people who spoke out in Mels defence.
Talking about the friends who have stood by him during his difficult past, the actor also named actress Whoopi Goldberg as one of his few allies.
I knew Whoopi before she was Whoopi. And, as shes great and I always liked her and loved her. I like her even more now because she got it, he added. (C) Cover Media