Mel Gibson won’t ride in New Orleans Mardi Gras parade due to public backlash

Mel Gibson won’t ride in New Orleans Mardi Gras parade due to public backlash

Mel Gibson’s invitation to be a co-grand marshal of a New Orleans Mardi Gras parade has drawn threats, causing the organization to reverse course with the actor.

The Krewe of Endymion extended an invitation to the “Lethal Weapon” star, but Gibson’s past antisemitic remarks gave many a reason to complain.

“The Krewe of Endymion has received significant feedback about our grand marshal announcement yesterday evening,” Endymion president Dan Kelly wrote, per NOLA.com. “Some of this commentary included threats that cause us great concern.

“In the best interest of the safety of our riders, special guests and everyone that welcomes us on the streets, Mel Gibson will not ride as a co-grand marshal for our 2023 parade.”

According to the report, the Jewish Federation of Greater New Orleans, the Greater New Orleans Rabbinic Council and the Anti-Defamation League released a joint statement that the organizations were “appalled that Endymion chose Mel Gibson as the parade’s 2023 Grand Marshal to begin with,” calling it “insulting and shortsighted.”

Gibson, 67, has seen his share of controversy.

His 2004 film, “The Passion of the Christ,” was criticized for being antisemitic propaganda.

In 2006, as Gibson was being detained for speeding and driving while intoxicated, he infamously directed an anti-Jewish tirade at the arresting officer.

Mark Heim is a sports reporter for The Alabama Media Group. Follow him on Twitter @Mark_Heim.