Academy Award-winning filmmaker Mel Gibson is facing a storm of controversy following reports that his upcoming biblical film will feature a graphic abortion scene involving the Virgin Mary.
The planned sequence, described by sources close to the production, would depict Mary considering terminating her pregnancy with Jesus before being visited by an angel who changes her mind.
Industry Backlash and Studio Concerns
According to industry insiders, the proposed scene has caused significant concern among executives at Warner Bros, the studio backing the project. Multiple sources have indicated that the controversial content could jeopardise the film's commercial viability and has already created tension between Gibson and the studio.
One production source revealed: "There's a feeling that this could be a step too far, even for Gibson. The combination of religious subject matter and graphic abortion imagery is creating serious concerns about both audience reception and potential protests."
Gibson's Controversial History
This isn't the first time Gibson has courted controversy with his religious depictions. His 2004 film "The Passion of the Christ" faced criticism for its extreme violence and accusations of antisemitism, yet became a massive commercial success, grossing over $600 million worldwide.
However, industry analysts suggest the current political climate around abortion rights, particularly in the United States, makes this new project especially volatile. The timing coincides with ongoing debates about reproductive rights following the overturning of Roe v Wade.
Religious Community Reaction
Early reactions from religious groups have been overwhelmingly negative. Catholic organisations have expressed deep concern about the portrayal of one of their most revered figures in such a context.
A spokesperson for Catholic Voices told reporters: "The Virgin Mary holds a sacred place in Christian belief. To depict her considering abortion isn't just controversial - it's deeply offensive to millions of believers worldwide."
Neither Gibson nor Warner Bros representatives have made official statements regarding the reported scene, leaving industry watchers to speculate about whether the controversial content will remain in the final cut or if studio pressure will force revisions.
