The Braveheart star previously came to the aid of Britney Spears following her public meltdown in 2008 and offered up his estate in Costa Rica as a refuge for the pop star to recover from her struggles away from the spotlight.

Now TMZ.com reports Gibson also attempted to come to the rescue of Houston while she battled an addiction to cocaine, marijuana and other drugs in the early 2000s.

Website editors claim the actor visited Houston and spent time with her to help her beat her drug demons, and his efforts have landed him an invitation to attend the singer's private memorial service on Saturday (18Feb12).

However, Gibson will not be able to join reported guests Kevin Costner, Aretha Franklin and Stevie Wonder at the funeral in Newark, New Jersey due to family plans.

Houston died last weekend (11Feb12). Her cause of death has been deferred pending toxicology results.

The singer will be laid to rest on Sunday (19Feb12), a day after her funeral.