Brendan O’Carroll, the star of Mrs. Brown’s Boys, has issued an apology regarding what he described as a “clumsy” joke that contained an implied “racial term.”.
The BBC suspended rehearsals for the forthcoming Christmas special to conduct an investigation into the incident.
The 69-year-old actor expressed deep regret over the statement, which the Mirror newspaper had initially reported.
O’Carroll reprises her role as the Irish matriarch Agnes Brown in the specials, in charge of her chaotic family of children and grandchildren.
O’Carroll informed Sky News in a statement: “During a read-through of the Mrs. Brown’s Boys Christmas specials, there was an awkward attempt at humour in the character of Agnes, where a racial term was suggested.”
“The outcome was unfavourable and resulted in an unintended offence, for which I express my sincere regret and have issued an apology.”
Rehearsals at the broadcaster’s Pacific Quay studios in Glasgow have recommenced, with programming scheduled to proceed on Christmas Day and New Year’s Day as intended.
A representative from the BBC stated: “Although we refrain from discussing specific individuals, the BBC maintains a firm stance against all forms of racism, and we have established comprehensive procedures to address any potential issues that may arise.”
Last year, Mrs. Brown’s Boys returned to the screen with a four-part series, marking its re-entry after a ten-year hiatus from television.
The fifth installment of the BAFTA-winning comedy is scheduled to commence filming next year.
Notwithstanding the unfavourable evaluations from critics, the programme demonstrates strong viewer engagement and maintains consistently elevated ratings, with the holiday specials showing especially high popularity.
Carroll is currently developing a new show for the BBC titled Shedites, in which he will also take on a starring role.