Mel Gibson Has a Star Supporter in Jodie Foster

NEW YORK (CBS) Regardless of his recent public troubles, which involve a series of foulmouthed leaked recordings, Jodie Foster says she is standing by her longtime pal, Mel Gibson.

PICTURES: Stars with Anger Issues

Foster, who costarred with Gibson in the 1994 flick "Maverick," backed the troubled actor-director, who is currently being investigated for alleged domestic violence and child endangerment, in the October issue of More magazine.

"[He] is the easiest, nicest person I've ever worked with," Foster told the magazine. "The second I met him, I said, 'I will love this man for the rest of my life'"

Foster recently directed and starred alongside Gibson in "The Beaver," which has yet to have a release date.  In the film, Gibson plays Foster's depressed husband who snaps out of depression after developing a friendship with a hand puppet.

Calling Gibson an "undeniably gifted actor and director," Foster also pledged her support for the embattled 54-year-old Hollywood star.

"When you love a friend, you don't abandon them when they are struggling," she said. "Of course, Mel is an undeniably gifted actor and director, and 'The Beaver' is one of his most powerful and moving performances. But more importantly, he is and has been a true and loyal friend. I hope I can help him get through this dark moment."

Foster isn't the only star backing behind Gibson.  Back in July, Whoopi Goldberg spoke out in defense of Gibsonwhile on "The View," saying that she knows him personally and does not view him as racist.