Robert Downey, Jr. tried to revitalize Mel Gibson’s public image while receiving the American Cinematheque Award at the Beverly Hills Hilton by telling the crowd the actor-director deserves forgiveness, according to The Hollywood Reporter. The ‘Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows’ actor first surprised Hollywood by choosing Gibson, with whom he starred in 1990′s ‘Air America,’ to present him with the award on October 14.

Then while accepting the award, Downey said that while he was trying to overcome his drug abuse, Gibson told him to “hug the cactus” of embracing humility and asking forgiveness. He then said “Unless you are without sin-and if you are, you’re in the wrong f***ing industry-you should forgive him and let him work again.”

Downey was returning the favor a Gibson, who posted an insurance bond for him while they were filming ‘Air America.’ At the time, the studios felt Downey was a high risk, and refused to hire him because of his drug addiction.

When presenting Downey with the award, Gibson received the biggest ovation from the crowd from the night’s presenters. He told the audience that he was warned Downey might be trouble when they were signing onto ‘Air America,’ as he had some personal issues. He said after meeting Downey, he decided “Nah, he’s OK.” After pausing, he added “Mind you, you have to remember the person making the judgment.”

Written by: Karen Benardello