Irish actor Brendan O’Carroll has issued an apology for a ‘clumsy’ joke that implied a racial term during rehearsals for the upcoming Christmas special of Mrs Brown’s Boys. The BBC initiated a temporary pause in rehearsals to investigate the incident, which subsequently resumed in Glasgow at the broadcaster’s Pacific Quay studios in Scotland. The shows are confirmed to go on as planned, as reported by the Mirror. O’Carroll, the creator and star of Mrs Brown’s Boys, will reprise his role as mischievous matriarch Agnes Brown in the Christmas Day and New Year’s Day specials.
In a statement to the PA news agency, O’Carroll acknowledged the failed attempt at humour, expressing regret for causing offense and offering his apologies. A spokesperson for the BBC confirmed the network’s stance against racism and reiterated having robust processes in place to address such issues if they arise. Last year, Mrs Brown’s Boys made a return with a four-part series, marking the first mini-series run since 2013, despite being part of Christmas schedules for over a decade.
The incident involving the controversial joke in rehearsals for the Christmas specials has attracted attention to the popular television show. O’Carroll’s prompt apology aims to address the misstep, highlighting the importance of sensitivity and awareness in the entertainment industry. As Mrs Brown’s Boys continues its production for the festive season, the BBC’s emphasis on combating racism underscores the network’s commitment to upholding values of inclusivity and respect.