A social media account pretending to be run by actor Mel Gibson teased his entry into the race for California governor — sending hopeful fans into a frenzy as the false statement went viral.
“People keep asking if I’d step up for California,” read a post on X from the verified account @official_mel_Gb, which had been viewed more than 360,000 times as of Friday morning.
“Here’s what I know: Our state deserves courage, conviction, and common sense.
No fear. No corruption. No surrender,” it continued. “California can rise again.”
The post received more than a thousands replies, with duped voters cheering on a potential Gibson candidacy.
“It needs you, and people like you who have that courage, conviction, and common sense, to step up and show them. So, are you gonna do it?” one user wrote.
“Heck YES!!!! You’d be perfect!! Who wouldn’t vote for Braveheart,” another added.
“I would knock on doors for you my brother,” a third responded.
The real Gibson has been highly critical of Gov. Gavin Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, telling Fox News last year they “have already proven their incompetence and poor leadership during the Los Angeles wildfires.”
“Now, as we experience rampant lawlessness and civil unrest, it’s never been more clear,” the actor said. “They’re unable to respond effectively and responsibly during calamity. Whether it’s sheer incompetence or outright malevolence, the reality is stark.”
Gibson emerged last year as a leading Republican contender for the state’s highest office.
In March, a poll found the actor topping the field of potential GOP gubernatorial candidates with 12% of the vote.
At the time, the actor shot down speculation that he would enter the race.