BBC comedy star Brendan O’Carroll has apologised for making a racist remark during a read-through of the Mrs Brown’s Boys Christmas special.
The incident, which occurred last Wednesday, sparked an urgent investigation by the broadcaster and led to the temporary suspension of rehearsals.
O’Carroll, 69, who plays the titular character Agnes Brown, used an offensive term that shocked those present.
The BBC swiftly launched a probe into the matter, causing a delay in production at their Pacific Quay studios in Scotland.
This latest controversy adds to a series of recent scandals that have plagued the Corporation, including the Strictly Come Dancing bullying row and the Huw Edwards incident.
The controversy occurred during a read-through of the Mrs Brown’s Boys Christmas special, where O’Carroll made what he later described as a “clumsy attempt at a joke” in character as Agnes Brown.
The offensive term used reportedly left cast and crew members shocked, prompting them to flag the issue with the BBC.
In response, the broadcaster ordered an urgent investigation, leading to the temporary suspension of rehearsals.
Brendan O’Carrol sparked a BBC racism probe over a Mrs Brown’s Boys joke
BBC
A source told The Mirror: “The whole production of the Christmas special was paused while the investigation was carried out.
“The entire cast and crew were stood down in the wake of the comment as the BBC tried to get to the bottom of it.”
Following the investigation, O’Carroll issued an apology for his remarks. He told The Mirror: “At a read-through of the Mrs. Brown’s Boys Christmas specials, there was a clumsy attempt at a joke, in the character of Agnes, where a racial term was implied.
“It backfired and caused offence which I deeply regret and for which I have apologised.”
The BBC, while not commenting on specific individuals, reiterated its stance against racism. Speaking to the publication, a spokesperson stated: “Whilst we don’t comment on individuals, the BBC is against all forms of racism and we have robust processes in place should issues ever arise.”
After O’Carroll’s apology, rehearsals for the festive special have resumed. The incident has cast a shadow over the production of the show’s 50th episode.
Brendan O’Carrol apologised for the racist remark
BBC
The controversy surrounding Mrs Brown’s Boys comes at a time when the show has recently been recommissioned for a fifth series by the BBC.
Production for the new series is set to commence in 2025, alongside the usual festive specials.
The show remains one of the broadcaster’s most popular comedies, drawing up to 5 million viewers per episode.
Jon Petrie, the BBC’s head of comedy, recently praised O’Carroll’s creation, stating: “Brendan has created an iconic comedy character in Agnes Brown. Mrs. Brown’s Boys is a BAFTA-winning comedy show and one of the BBC’s most-watched comedies ever… I’m proud to have it in the BBC Comedy stable.”
Despite the current controversy, O’Carroll is also developing a new show for the BBC titled Shedites, which will feature comedian Tommy Cannon in a leading role.
Brendan O’Carrol has starred in the BBC comedy since it debuted in 2011
Getty
Shedites aims to address men’s mental health through comedy. The 30-minute pilot, shot in April, was written by Paddy Houlihan, who co-writes Mrs Brown’s Boys with O’Carroll.
The comedian explained: “It’s using comedy to touch on men’s mental health. The BBC loved the pilot. Hopefully it will be out in the fall.”
O’Carroll emphasised the importance of the show, stating: “I’ve been advocating for the BBC to make this show for a long time because as well as being really funny, it highlights men’s mental health.
“It’s not something men talk about, but it’s got easier because of the men’s shed movement which has sprung up in UK and Ireland.”
The new series will feature a kitchen, card table, and spaces for men to discuss their problems.