Brendan O'Carroll has cancelled the 2026 Mrs Brown's Boys Christmas and New Year specials after doctors found two fractures in his jaw, requiring immediate surgery and months of recovery.
The 70-year-old Irish actor and comedian, who plays Agnes Brown, confirmed the news in a statement on Monday (August 17). He said he is 'heartbroken' by the decision, which 'has not been taken lightly'.
Medical issue forces cancellation
The specials are typically filmed in front of a live studio audience at BBC Scotland's Pacific Quay Studios in Glasgow each year. However, in a post shared to the official Mrs Brown's Boys social media pages, O'Carroll confirmed the shows will not go ahead.
He wrote: "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."
Shows postponed to 2027
O'Carroll added that he is talking with the BBC about bringing Mrs. Brown's Boys back on screen in 2027. He also announced the postponement of the 3 Arena Dublin and INEC Killarney shows 'Mrs. Brown’s Boys D’Panto?', which were scheduled for later this year, with efforts underway with MCD to reschedule them for 2027.
He thanked MCD and the BBC for their support and understanding, noting the decision was made on medical advice from his consultant. He said: "To say I am heartbroken is an absolute understatement."
Apology to fans
O'Carroll concluded: "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."
Mrs Brown's Boys has been on the BBC for 15 years, having first debuted on BBC One on February 21, 2011. Last year's Christmas special drew around 1.6 million viewers on December 25, 2025.
