Hollywood actor and director Mel Gibson has made headlines once again, this time for abruptly walking away from a lucrative $3 million deal with PlayStation. The reason? Reports suggest that Gibson took issue with the company’s promotion of Pride-related content, calling it "woke" and harmful to children.
The decision has sparked intense debate, with critics accusing Gibson of fueling anti-LGBTQ+ sentiments, while supporters praise him for taking a stand against what they see as corporate virtue signaling. His stance adds to the growing divide over Pride representation in media and entertainment, particularly as major brands continue to incorporate LGBTQ+ themes into their marketing.
The PlayStation deal was reportedly set to involve Gibson in a major promotional campaign, likely tied to a new game release or exclusive content. The collaboration would have been one of Gibson’s biggest commercial endorsements in recent years.
However, sources close to the situation claim that the actor abruptly cut ties after learning about PlayStation’s Pride-related initiatives.
According to reports, Gibson felt that PlayStation’s involvement in Pride campaigns was part of a broader “woke” agenda, something he has previously criticized in Hollywood. His main concern, sources claim, was the impact of LGBTQ+ representation in media on children.
“Mel believes that companies pushing this kind of messaging are crossing a line,” a source allegedly close to him stated. “He doesn’t want to be part of anything that promotes ideologies he fundamentally disagrees with.”
As news of Gibson’s departure spread, reactions were swift and polarizing. On one side, LGBTQ+ advocates and progressive voices condemned his decision as yet another example of intolerance in Hollywood.
Many took to social media to call out what they saw as blatant homophobia.
“Mel Gibson walking out of a PlayStation deal because of Pride? That tells you everything you need to know about him,” one Twitter user wrote.
Others pointed out that Gibson has a history of making controversial remarks, particularly those deemed offensive to marginalized communities. Some critics argue that this latest move only reinforces his reputation as an actor with extremist views.
On the other hand, Gibson’s supporters have rallied behind him, applauding his decision as an act of courage in an industry that they believe pressures people into conforming to liberal ideologies. Many conservatives and anti-“woke” commentators have praised him for refusing to back down in the face of corporate activism.
“Mel Gibson stood up for his beliefs and walked away from millions,” one supporter posted. “That takes guts. More celebrities should do the same.”
Gibson is no stranger to controversy. Over the years, he has faced public backlash for a series of inflammatory remarks, including antisemitic and racist statements that severely damaged his Hollywood career in the 2000s.
While he has managed to stage a partial comeback in recent years, starring in and directing several successful films, he has remained a divisive figure.
His stance against “woke” culture aligns him with a growing faction of Hollywood conservatives who believe that political correctness and progressive activism have overtaken the entertainment industry. However, few have been as vocal—or as willing to walk away from major deals—as Gibson.
Gibson’s PlayStation controversy comes amid a broader debate over corporations integrating social and political messaging into their branding. PlayStation, like many major companies, has publicly supported LGBTQ+ rights and Pride celebrations, often featuring themed content and sponsorships in its marketing.
Supporters of these campaigns argue that representation is important and that companies have a responsibility to stand with marginalized groups. Detractors, however, claim that brands are engaging in performative activism and pushing political agendas on consumers.
Gibson’s decision to reject a multimillion-dollar deal over this issue is a rare, high-profile instance of a celebrity openly rebuffing a corporation over its stance on Pride. Whether this move will impact his career remains to be seen, but it undoubtedly solidifies his position as one of Hollywood’s most outspoken critics of “woke” culture.
It is unclear how PlayStation will respond to Gibson’s departure or if they will publicly address his criticisms. However, given that most major entertainment and gaming companies continue to promote diversity and inclusion, it seems unlikely that his stance will change corporate strategies.
For Gibson, this move may further alienate him from mainstream Hollywood, but it is also likely to increase his support among conservative audiences who oppose progressive social movements. Whether he seeks out new opportunities with companies that align more closely with his views or continues to focus on independent projects remains uncertain.
One thing is for sure—Mel Gibson’s latest controversy won’t be the last. As the culture war over “woke” messaging intensifies, figures like him will continue to be at the center of the storm, whether they are embraced or condemned.
