Mrs Brown’s Boys star Brendan O'Carroll in hot water over 'clumsy' racist joke

Brendan O'Carroll, the Irish star of the BBC One sitcom Mrs Brown's Boys, has apologised for a 'clumsy' joke that included an implied racial term during rehearsals for the upcoming Christmas special.

In the slapstick series, O'Carroll portrays Agnes Brown, a spirited Irish matriarch who brings her family and friends together for moments filled with laughter and emotion in her home.

Following the incident, the BBC temporarily paused production and initiated an investigation, though shows have resumed as scheduled.

O'Carroll, also the creator of the show, acknowledged that he made an inappropriate attempt at humour while in character, which reportedly left those present 'shocked' and prompted them to report the matter to the BBC.

In response, 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."