Mel Gibson credits Robert Downey Jr. for his return to Hollywood after a public meltdown.
In a recent interview, Gibson spoke about his infamous 2006 DUI arrest and the antisemitic remarks he made. He said the incident “ended my career” and left him “blacklisted.”
Gibson says Downey Jr., his co-star from “Air America,” reached out during this difficult time. He remembers Downey Jr. “standing up” for him at an awards ceremony in 2011, when Gibson was largely out of the spotlight.
This act of kindness wasn’t the only way Downey Jr. helped. Gibson reveals Downey Jr. cast him in the lead role of “The Singing Detective” (2003) even though Gibson was originally slated for the part. Downey Jr. reportedly even helped secure Gibson’s insurance for the film after companies refused coverage due to his past troubles.
Also Read: Veteran Actor Johnny Depp Cheers on Longtime Friend Robert Downey Jr.’s First Oscar Win
Gibson says Downey Jr. only asked one thing in return: “that someday I help the next guy in some small way.”
