Mel Gibson

Mel Gibson

Mel Gibson feels sympathy for Shia LaBeouf.

The 58-year-old actor is concerned about the troubled star, who has sparked fears over his mental health after he appeared at a film premiere in Germany with a paper bag on his head earlier this year, and believes he's got some personal issues that need resolving.

Speaking to Indiewire, he said: "When I see someone like Shia LaBeouf with the bag on his head and stuff, my heart goes out to the poor guy. I think he's suffering in some way. Or why would he do that?

"People are inclined to sort of point the finger at him and say like, well, he's this, that, or the other. It's easy to judge. But I'm sure he's going through some kind of personal, very painful, cathartic thing that he has to exorcise and get out there."

Shia is currently receiving treatment for alcohol addiction after he was arrested in New York City last month for allegedly yelling offensive language and slapping people's bottoms during a 'Cabaret' performance.

However, Mel believes the 27-year-old star will sort out his problems and will come back fighting.

He added: "He'll be all right. I actually like the kid. I think he's good."

Meanwhile, Shia is due to appear in court in New York on July 24 after he was charged with harassment, disorderly conduct and criminal trespassing following his bizarre behaviour in Studio 54 theatre.