It's fair to say that, especially in recent years, Mel Gibson's career has suffered from a number of ups and downs. Public outbursts of antisemitism and alcoholism, which it should be noted he's apologized and sought treatment for, have taken some of the shine of what has been a glittering career on the silver screen. They have not, however, taken anything away from his impressive personal fortune.
A major film franchise helps with the star power and earning potential of any actor, and Gibson has been lucky enough to star in two. The 'Max Max' series earned him his early riches and set him on the right path, and by the time the 'Lethal Weapon' franchise rolled into town he'd cemented his place among the elites of Hollywood. Turning his hand to screenwriting and directing, hits like 'The Passion of the Christ' and 'Apocalypto' earned him a reputation for being just as gifted behind the camera.