Jodie Foster’s Fierce Loyalty: Why She Stands by Mel Gibson

In the world of Hollywood, Jodie Foster has always chosen to carve her own path. She’s never been one to simply follow the crowd, and from the very start of her career, she’s made it clear that she only takes on projects that truly speak to her. Foster has often wondered why some actors are content to accept any role, regardless of the quality or purpose.

“I don’t understand how they just want to act. They don’t care if the movie ’s bad. They don’t care if the dialogue is bad. They don’t care if they’re a grape in a Fruit of the Loom ad.”

For Foster, acting is about being a vessel for stories that matter. She believes the heart of the craft lies in treating it as an art form, not just a job or a way to get your name out there.

Championing New Voices in a Tough Industry

Foster knows firsthand how tough the entertainment business can be, especially for women who start young. She’s watched the industry become more diverse over the years, and while that brings her pride, it also makes her worry for the next generation. She feels a strong urge to reach out to up-and-coming stars, hoping to help them avoid the struggles she faced. That’s what led her to connect with Bella Ramsey, asking the young actor to introduce her at Elle’s 2023 Women in Hollywood event. Foster, who likely first saw Ramsey in HBO ’s The Last of Us, told The Guardian,

“I do a lot of reaching out to young actresses. I’m compelled. Because it was hard growing up.”

Finding Balance and Building Bonds

Through her own journey, Foster has learned the importance of balancing control, resilience, and humility, even when the outcome of a project is uncertain. Back in 1994, she starred alongside Mel Gibson in the offbeat Western Maverick. That experience sparked a deep admiration and a lasting friendship. She felt an instant connection with Gibson, one that went beyond what anyone else might have thought or said about him.

“I’ve never worked with anybody I’ve liked so much,”

she told The Washington Post that year.

“I mean, I have respect for his talent and all that, but I just like him. He’s so many things that I’m not. He’s incredibly uncomplicated for one thing. And the first time I met him, I walked into the room, and I said, ‘I love this guy.’”

Unwavering Support Despite Controversy

Gibson’s career has been marked by a series of scandals, from accusations of sexism and racism to legal troubles and allegations of abuse. Yet, Foster’s loyalty has never wavered. When they reunited for her 2011 drama The Beaver, she spoke candidly about her feelings. She admitted that standing by Gibson might not be the popular choice, but she sees a side of him that others don’t.

“He’s so incredibly loving and sensitive, he really is,”

she told The Hollywood Reporter.

“He is the most loved actor I have ever worked with on a movie. And he’s not saintly, and he’s got a big mouth, and he’ll do gross things your nephew would do. But I knew the minute I met him that I would love him the rest of my life.”