Brendan O'Carroll to Undergo Surgery, Cancels 2026 Christmas Specials and Tour

Brendan O'Carroll, the creator and star of the popular comedy series Mrs. Brown's Boys, has announced that upcoming recordings for the show's 2026 Christmas and New Year's specials have been cancelled due to an unexpected medical issue requiring immediate surgery. In a statement released on August 17, 2026, the 70-year-old performer revealed that a CT scan showed he had two fractures in his mandible, or jawbone.

O'Carroll stated that the decision was made on medical advice from his consultant and that he now faces a recovery period of several months. "To say I am heartbroken is an absolute understatement," he said, apologizing to fans for the disappointment. The medical issue has also forced the postponement of the touring stage show, "Mrs. Brown's Boys D'Movie?," which was scheduled for performances at Dublin's 3Arena and the Gleneagle Arena in Killarney later this year. O'Carroll noted he is working with the production company MCD to reschedule these live events for 2027.

The cancellation affects the BBC's festive television schedule, where the sitcom has been a regular feature. A BBC spokesperson confirmed the situation, saying, "We wish Brendan a full and speedy recovery and...