Brendan O'Carroll has cancelled the recordings of the 2026 Mrs Brown's Boys Christmas and New Year's specials after a CT scan revealed two fractures in his mandible (jaw), requiring immediate surgery and a few months of recovery. The actor and comedian issued a heartbroken statement announcing the news.
Full Statement on 2026 Cancellations
In his statement, O'Carroll said: "It is with sincere regret I must announce that due to an unexpected medical issue I will have to cancel the recordings of the 2026 Mrs. Brown's Boys Christmas and New Year's Specials. Following a CT Scan, it was found that I had two fractures in my mandible (jaw) which requires immediate surgery and a few months recovery."
He added: "I am talking with the BBC about getting Mrs. Brown's Boys back on the screen in 2027. I will sadly have to postpone both the 3 Arena Dublin and INEC Killarney Shows 'Mrs. Brown's Boys D'Panto?' which were scheduled for later this year."
Rescheduling Plans and Apology
O'Carroll confirmed he is working with MCD to reschedule the shows for 2027. He thanked MCD and the BBC for their support and understanding, stating: "This decision has not been taken lightly and has been made on medical advice from my Consultant. To say I am heartbroken is an absolute understatement."
He apologised to fans: "I would like to sincerely apologise to all our fans who were looking forward to seeing the shows and for any disappointment caused. I now need to focus on getting myself back to full health, and I genuinely cannot wait to see you all again in 2027. Our fans mean the world to us, thank you from the bottom of my heart for your love and support and trust me Agnes Brown and her family will be back!"
Past Health Issues
In 2020, O'Carroll revealed a doctor noticed his laboured breathing on television, leading to tests that found a 99% blocked artery. He received a stent and was warned he was a month away from having a heart attack.
Three years prior to his stent procedure, while filming in Glasgow, O'Carroll suffered symptoms he initially believed were a heart attack. Medical evaluation later confirmed the incident was caused by a severe virus. Around 2017, he sought treatment for arterial circulation issues that restricted his walking ability. Following successful medical intervention and lifestyle changes, including stopping smoking, he reported feeling "110 per cent" before his recent jaw injury.
