Brendan O'Carroll, star of BBC's Mrs Brown's Boy, apologizes in racism probe | Celebrity News

Brendan O’Carroll, the creator and lead star of Mrs Brown’s Boys, has apologized after a racist comment he made triggered a BBC investigation.

During a script review of the Christmas special last Wednesday with the cast and crew, O’Carroll, 69, mentioned an offensive term which led to the temporary suspension of rehearsals while the BBC urgently investigated the matter.

Staff members who heard the comment were surprised and reported it immediately, prompting the BBC to take swift action.

O’Carroll admitted to the Mirror: “At a reading 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 offense whereby I am deeply sorry and for which I have apologized.”

The BBC also addressed the issue, stating: “While we do not comment on individuals, the BBC is against all forms of racism and we have robust processes in place should issues arise,” reports the Mirror.

The incident halted production on the festive episode, according to sources, as the entire crew was placed on leave during the investigation into O’Carroll’s comments.

The incident resulted in a delay to the start of rehearsals today (MON) at BBC Scotland’s Pacific Quay studios. Following the conclusion of the investigative process and the issuing of an apology from O’Carroll, normal rehearsal times resumed.

The series is famous for bringing laughter to up to 5 million viewers per episode, with its investigation casting a shadow over its recent triumph at the National Television Awards, where it won Best Comedy.

It comes after the broadcaster has already been marred by problems in recent months, most notably the uproar surrounding allegations of bullying on the set of Strictly Come Dancing, which included complaints against Giovanni Pernice for his behavior towards Amanda Abbington, as well as the chaos resulting from the Huw Edwards case.

Despite these issues, Mrs Brown’s Boys remains riding high on its success, with the BBC greenlighting a fifth season and holiday specials, both scheduled for production in 2025.

Excited about the future, creator Brendan O’Carroll commented: “We’re going to be filming another series in April and May (2025). It’s great to be asked to do another one.”

Fans were looking forward to what would be the show’s 50th episode as part of the special Christmas programming.

Jon Petrie, head of comedy at the BBC, praised the show last month: “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.” the times. I’m proud to have him in the BBC Comedy stable.

Even with current programs thriving, O’Carroll isn’t resting on his laurels. He is taking on new creative challenges and announced last month that he is developing a new project for the BBC.

This new venture, titled ‘Sheditas’, has been scripted by O’Carroll and will star comedian Tommy Cannon in a prominent role.