Mel Columcille Gerard Gibson is an Australian actor, film director, and producer of American origin. He has gained widespread recognition for his portrayal of action heroes.
He is most notably known for his breakthrough performance as Max Rockatansky in the initial three installments of the post-apocalyptic action franchise Mad Max, as well as for his portrayal of Martin Riggs in the buddy cop action-comedy film series Lethal Weapon.
Mel Gibson’s Early Life
Gibson’s birthplace is Peekskill, New York, where he was born on January 3, 1956. At the age of 12, he relocated to Australia with his family. He pursued his acting education at the National Institute of Dramatic Art, where he played the lead role in a production of Romeo and Juliet alongside Judy Davis.
Mel Gibson Acting Career
Gibson commenced his screen acting profession in 1976 with a portrayal on the Australian television program, The Sullivans. Throughout his career, Gibson has appeared in 43 films, encompassing the Mad Max and Lethal Weapon film franchises.
In addition to acting, Gibson has also directed four films, including Braveheart and The Passion of the Christ; produced 11 films; and written two films. Films either starring or directed by Mel Gibson have earned over US$2.5 billion, in the United States alone. Gibson’s filmography includes television series, feature films, television films, and animated films.
Gibson’s breakout role came in 1979, when he starred in the film Mad Max. The film was a critical and commercial success, and it made Gibson an international star. He followed up Mad Max with a number of other successful films, including Gallipoli (1981), The Bounty (1984), and Lethal Weapon (1987).
Gibson’s most acclaimed role came in 1995, when he starred in the film Braveheart. He directed and produced the film, which won five Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Director. Gibson also starred in the 2004 film The Passion of the Christ, which was a critical and commercial success.
Also read: All you need to know about Tucker Carlson Biography
In recent years, Gibson has directed a number of films, including Apocalypto (2006) and Hacksaw Ridge (2016). He has also starred in a number of films, including The Expendables 3 (2014) and Daddy’s Home 2 (2017).
Gibson has been married twice. He has seven children. He is a controversial figure, and he has been accused of anti-Semitism and sexism. However, he remains a popular and successful actor and director.
Mel Gibson’s awards and achievements
- Academy Award for Best Picture for Braveheart (1995)
- Academy Award for Best Director for Braveheart (1995)
- Golden Globe Award for Best Director for Braveheart (1995)
- BAFTA Award for Best Direction for Braveheart (1995)
- AFI Life Achievement Award (2003)
- Honorary Officer of the Order of Australia (2004)
In conclusion, although he is controversial, there is no doubt that he is one of the most successful and influential actors and directors of his generation. His films have entertained and inspired audiences around the world, and he continues to be a major force in the film industry.
Continue reading: Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson Biography