The BBC has confirmed that Diane Morgan's Mandy festive special, previously pulled from last year's Christmas schedule amid speculation it could mock Donald Trump, will air this Christmas after "updates".
Special Axed Amid Trump Libel Action
The unaired festive special of Morgan's hit comedy series, Mandy, was axed from the Christmas schedule last year, months after Donald Trump launched a $10billion (£7.39billion) libel action against the corporation. The episode, titled The Mandy Who Knew Too Much, centres around global diplomacy, which quickly sparked speculation that it could ridicule Trump.
The BBC did not provide a reason for the delayed episode, other than to say it "wants to update" parts of it before the broadcast. Now, the company have confirmed that the episode will air this Christmas after updating the synopsis on BBC iPlayer.
Updated Synopsis Confirms Christmas Broadcast
The updated 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."
It adds: "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."
Mrs Brown's Boys Specials Cancelled
The news comes after Mrs Brown's Boys festive specials were cancelled following Brendan O'Carroll's health revelation. Following a CT scan, medics identified two fractures in the mandible, prompting the Irish producer to call off the Christmas and New Year's specials for jaw surgery.
Announcing the news in a statement, O'Carroll 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 required immediate surgery and a few months' recovery."
He then reassured fans that the show would 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."
O'Carroll concluded: "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. 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!"
