Mel Gibson

Profession: Actor and Film Director

Nationality:

Biography: Actor Mel Gibson was born in the US but brought up in Australia and it was there he began his film career. Early successes included WWI film "Gallipoli" and "Mad Max" (1979).

Gibson moved to Hollywood and developed a career as a well-known action star appearing in the Lethal Weapon film franchise alongside Danny Glover.

He made his directorial debut with "The Man Without a Face" (1993) and then with the historical epic "Braveheart" (1995) about the Scottish hero William Wallace, which he also produced and starred in. The film was hugely successful, winning five Oscars including Best Picture and Gibson Best Director at the 1995 Academy Awards.

Gibson has continued to direct, with his R rated 2004 film "The Passion of the Christ", the most successful independent film ever. The film's depiction of the life of Christ just before his crucifixion raised controversy worldwide.

Gibson's reputation in later life has taken a few hits from various scandals, including his drinking arrests, anti-semitic comments and an investigation into domestic abuse.

Born: January 3, 1956
Birthplace: Peekskill, New York, USA
Age: 67 years old

Generation: Baby Boomer
Chinese Zodiac: Goat/Sheep
Star Sign: Capricorn