Should Hollywood give Mel Gibson another chance? Robert Downey Jr. seems to think so.
The Iron Man star turned his American Cinematheque tribute into an attempt to rescue the former A-lister’s career at the Beverly Hilton Hotel on Friday night.
During Gibson’s presentation at the star-studded event, he recalled being warned about hiring Downey for Air America in 1990 due to Downey’s tumultuous private life. Downey always credited Gibson for giving him a second chance during his struggle with substance abuse.
After accepting his award, Downey spoke about his past and asked the crowded ballroom to give Gibson a break.
“Unless you are without sin—and if you are, you are in the wrong f—king industry—you should forgive him and let him work again,” Downey said.
Notorious for his anti-Semitic remarks and DUI arrest, Gibson also announced his plans to direct a film about Judah Macabee, the Jewish warrior who led the fight against the Seleucid Empire. Let the controversy ensue.