Mrs Brown’s Boys halted following ‘racist remark’ from creator Brendan O’Carroll

O'Carroll has apologised for the incident

The BBC launched an investigation after O'Carroll used a "racial term" during a read-through for the specials last Wednesday (October 9).

In a statement to the Mirror, the 69-year-old said the comment, made while he was in character as Agnes, was intended as a joke but that it backfired.

O'Carroll said he regrets the comment and has apologised.

In a statement, the BBC said: "Whilst we don't comment on individuals, the BBC is against all forms of racism and we have robust processes in place should issues ever arise."

A source told the publication that production on this year's specials was halted pending the outcome of the BBC's investigation into the incident.

However, rehearsals resumed on Monday (October 15) after O'Carroll's apology was accepted.

The Mrs Brown's Boys festive specials have become a Christmas staple for many, with the show regularly being one of the most watched shows on Christmas Day.

This year, two specials will air on Christmas Day and New Year's Day, with the Christmas special set to be the 50th episode of the comedy.

Despite being panned by critics ever since it first aired in 2011, the show has built up a huge and devoted fan base, and recently won Best Comedy at the National Television Awards.

A fifth series has been commissioned by the BBC, with filming is set to begin in April 2025.