The Christmas and New Year's specials for the BBC comedy "Mrs. Brown's Boys," along with its touring stage show, have been cancelled due to lead actor Brendan O'Carroll needing urgent surgery for two fractures in his jaw. O'Carroll, 70, announced the cancellations on Monday, expressing his "sincere regret" for the disruption.
In a statement, O'Carroll explained that a CT scan revealed the fractures in his mandible, necessitating immediate surgery and several months of recovery. "To say I am heartbroken is an absolute understatement," he said. "I now need to focus on getting myself back to full health." He also apologized to fans for any disappointment caused.
The cancellations affect the planned recordings for the 2026 Christmas and New Year's episodes. Additionally, the "Mrs. Brown's Boys D'Panto?" shows scheduled for later this year at Dublin's 3 Arena and Killarney's Gleneagle Arena will be postponed. O'Carroll is working with promoters MCD to reschedule these performances for 2027.
A BBC spokesperson confirmed the broadcaster's support, stating, "We wish Brendan a full and speedy recovery and are working with him on plans for Mrs Brown’s Boys in 2027." O'Carroll is also in discussions with the BBC about bringing the show back to television screens in 2027.
"Mrs. Brown's Boys," which first aired in 2011, features O'Carroll as Agnes Brown, a matriarch who often interferes in her family's lives. The show has received awards and previously spawned a spin-off, "All Round to Mrs Brown's."
Despite the show's continued presence, recent Christmas specials have faced criticism from some viewers, who have described them as "woeful" and "unfunny" on social media platforms.