The BBC has confirmed that the unaired Christmas special of Diane Morgan's comedy series Mandy will air this year, after it was postponed in 2025. The decision comes months after Donald Trump launched a $10 billion (£7.39 billion) libel action against the corporation.
Episode pulled amid Trump lawsuit
The festive special, titled Mandy Who Knew Too Much, revolves around global diplomacy, sparking speculation that it could mock Trump. The BBC previously gave no reason for the delay, only saying it wanted to "update" parts before broadcast.
The corporation has now updated the synopsis on BBC iPlayer, reiterating that the episode will air this Christmas. The new synopsis reads: "A seasonal comedy special that sees Mandy have what can only be described as one of the worst Christmases ever. Apart from the one you're having right now. Mandy rarely dabbles in global diplomacy, especially over Christmas when it's so cold out and there's good telly on, but when she does, you can bet that she makes a real difference to the balance of power in the world."
Morgan's other projects and Mrs Brown's Boys cancellation
Diane Morgan returned to the airwaves this summer with the new BBC comedy Ann Droid, starring alongside Sue Johnston and Paul Ready.
The news follows the cancellation of Mrs Brown's Boys festival specials after Brendan O'Carroll's health revelation. Following a CT scan, doctors discovered two mandible fractures, leading the Irish producer to cancel the Christmas and New Year's specials for jaw surgery.
In a 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 required immediate surgery and a few months' recovery."
He reassured fans the show will return in 2027, adding: "I am talking with the BBC about getting Mrs Brown's Boys back on the screen in 2027. We are currently working with MCD to try to reschedule these shows. I would like to thank MCD and the BBC for their support and understanding at this difficult time. This decision has not been taken lightly and has been made on medical advice from my consultant."
He concluded: "To say I am heartbroken is an absolute understatement. 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!"
