I'm in the same boat...I don't look Jewish in the conventional way and I've never had a Jewish name. The things people say is astounding. This year, especially, I have felt more fear for the future than ever before. And that's why what he said was so terrible. He is an INTERNATIONAL celebrity and this will be printed everywhere. He's just as responsible for what he says as the Dixie Chicks are. And IMO, what he said was far more damaging than what they said. To say I'm disappointed would be an understatement. Unlike many of my friends and relatives..I defended him against the accusations that he was anti-semetic and that THE PASSION OF THE CHRIST was his vehicle to display it. But now ALL those critics are sitting and having their I TOLD YOU SO moment. And everyone who praised Gibson for that should be disappointed as well.
It really bothers me that so many Freepers are fine with what he said.
Then they whine because it's in the media, and the media will have a field day.
As if the MSM got him drunk, made him drive and forced him to spew bigotry.
I think you are right. His father said similar things, and for some reason, that is germane. I don't agree with most of my relatives. The fact remains that he unleashed his hostilities and really destroyed his credibility. I admire his apology, but that will not change his public image. It's sad.
I am not Jewish. I am surprised at how people say similar things while cold sober.
When I teach about Judaism I have people look up famous Jewish leaders (not just media celebs). They are always impressed.