After losing his Malibu home to a devastating fire, Mel Gibson shared his thoughts in a way that sparked quite the reaction. While appearing as a guest on The Joe Rogan Experience, Gibson, at 69, discussed the emotional toll of seeing his home and precious belongings reduced to ashes.
“I’ve never witnessed such a complete burn,” he expressed. “It’s deeply heartbreaking. You establish a connection with a place, having lived there for 14 or 15 years. It was home to me, filled with memories and possessions.”
In conversation with Elizabeth Vargas on NewsNation, Gibson further delved into the emotional impact, labeling the loss as both “emotional” and “devastating.” This type of personal tragedy inevitably takes a toll, not just materially but emotionally too.
The actor also made an appearance on Fox News, where he shared his conspiracy theories surrounding the fires, which some viewers labeled as controversial. Discussing the water management in California, he remarked: “There’s been some puzzling actions concerning water reserves. They’ve been releasing them, and it’s mind-boggling why they would choose to do so.”
Gibson posed questions that have engaged many in debates: “Is this deliberate? Are they trying to empty the state?” He acknowledged concocting “horrible theories” in his mind but found the lack of water amidst the fires “convenient.”
Adding to his speculations, Gibson noted the perfect storm of conditions necessary for fires: “The wind conditions were perfect. It raises the question whether people are setting fires of their own volition or if there’s a more sinister motive. The individuals they catch seem quite prepared.”
Laura Ingraham, host of the segment, addressed the larger implications: “There’s buzz about re-evaluating how rebuilding should proceed. There’s a pressing demand for high-density housing in California, an idea championed by climate activists. This might signal a shift from traditional single-family homes to more densely packed residential areas.”
Gibson’s comments sparked a flurry of reactions on social media platform X. One user remarked, “Gibson’s penchant for conspiracy theories might be his final claim to fame,” while another quipped, “Suddenly he’s a water reserve expert.”
The backlash continued with a disapproving fan declaring, “I’ll never watch another movie of his,” and another suggesting he should take a “rest.” A succinct but stinging comment simply branded his views as “Shameful.”
These varied responses underscore the divided public opinion on Gibson’s remarks and the sensitive issue of handling natural disasters.