Mel Gibson Rejects $2 Million Voiceover Deal with PlayStation, Slams Pride as ‘Woke’ and Warns of Its Impact on Kids
In a move that has quickly become the talk of Hollywood and the gaming world, actor and director Mel Gibson has rejected a lucrative $2 million voiceover deal with PlayStation, citing his strong objections to what he calls the “woke” culture surrounding Pride events and their influence on children. The decision has sent shockwaves through both the entertainment industry and the gaming community, as Gibson has long been one of the most outspoken figures in Hollywood.
Speaking candidly about his choice to decline the deal, Gibson made it clear that he believes the growing trend of promoting Pride events and LGBTQ+ inclusion within mainstream media and entertainment is part of a larger cultural shift that he sees as damaging to society, especially to younger generations.
“I won’t be part of something that perpetuates this agenda,” Gibson stated in an exclusive interview. “What we’re seeing today with Pride events and all this ‘wokeness’ is not about inclusivity; it’s about pushing an ideology on kids. They’re too young to be exposed to this kind of thing, and it’s not healthy for them.”
Gibson’s comments have ignited a firestorm of controversy, particularly given his past and the timing of the rejection. The actor, whose career spans decades and includes iconic roles in films like Braveheart and Lethal Weapon, has previously faced backlash for controversial remarks and actions. However, his decision to step away from a high-profile deal with PlayStation has drawn intense reactions, not only from fans of his work but also from LGBTQ+ advocates and those who believe in the importance of inclusive representation in modern entertainment.
A Bold Stand Against ‘Woke’ Culture
The actor’s rejection of the PlayStation deal stems from his belief that the gaming industry and other entertainment sectors are being overrun by “woke” ideologies that he feels prioritize political correctness over creativity and true diversity of thought.
“I’ve been in this business for decades,” Gibson explained. “I’ve seen how things have changed, and not for the better. This idea that everyone has to be made to feel good by pushing a particular message is suffocating the real essence of what art and entertainment should be about.”
While some have applauded Gibson for taking a stand against what they see as an overly politicized entertainment industry, others argue that his views are out of step with the growing push for more inclusive and diverse storytelling. In particular, PlayStation and other major companies in the gaming world have made clear efforts to foster inclusive environments, using games to reflect a wider range of experiences and identities.
LGBTQ+ advocacy groups have strongly criticized Gibson’s stance, with many calling his comments dangerous and out of touch with current social progress. “Mel Gibson’s refusal to embrace the LGBTQ+ community in his work is harmful and ignorant,” said Emily Peters, an LGBTQ+ rights activist. “The gaming industry, like all forms of media, has a responsibility to represent everyone and ensure that no one feels left behind.”
Gibson’s Concerns Over Children
One of the most striking parts of Gibson’s interview was his concern about the impact of Pride and LGBTQ+ inclusion on children. He specifically pointed to the growing visibility of LGBTQ+ characters in video games, television shows, and films as something that could be damaging to young minds. “Kids should be focused on being kids,” he said. “They shouldn’t have to deal with adult concepts like sexuality and politics before they’re ready.”
This argument echoes similar sentiments from other critics of Pride Month and LGBTQ+ representation in entertainment, who believe that the promotion of such themes in family-friendly media is inappropriate and prematurely sexualizes children. However, advocates for LGBTQ+ visibility argue that inclusive representation allows children to feel seen and understood, regardless of their identity.
“I think it’s incredibly important that children see diverse role models in media,” said Sarah Jenkins, a mother of two and advocate for LGBTQ+ youth. “It helps them understand the world around them and grow up with empathy and acceptance. Mel Gibson’s views are damaging, and they don’t reflect the reality of today’s world.”
The Impact on the Gaming Industry
Gibson’s rejection of a major voiceover contract is likely to have lasting implications, not just for his career but for the entertainment and gaming industries as a whole. As one of the most high-profile names to publicly reject an opportunity due to ideological differences, it raises larger questions about the role of personal beliefs in professional opportunities and the increasing tension between mainstream culture and conservative values.
Gaming companies, such as PlayStation, have made a strong push in recent years to engage with a diverse global audience, which includes embracing LGBTQ+ representation in both game narratives and character designs. The industry’s focus on inclusivity has been met with praise from many gamers who appreciate the reflection of real-world diversity in their virtual worlds.
Whether Gibson’s rejection of the deal will inspire a larger movement within Hollywood and gaming to stand against what he calls “woke culture” remains to be seen. However, one thing is clear: the debate about the role of social and political issues in entertainment is far from over.
As PlayStation and other companies continue to make strides in diversity, Gibson’s rejection serves as a reminder of the ever-evolving battle over the direction of modern culture and the values that will shape it in the years to come.
