Dublin, Ireland – January 6, 2026

In a heartbreaking announcement that has left millions of fans around the world in shock, Brendan O’Carroll, the beloved creator and star of the iconic comedy series Mrs. Brown’s Boys, has confirmed he has been diagnosed with cancer.

The 70-year-old Irish comedian and actor broke the news in an emotional video posted to his official social media accounts just minutes ago, revealing that he has been privately battling the illness for several months.

With tears in his eyes but his trademark warmth still shining through, O’Carroll, dressed in his famous Mrs. Brown cardigan and curlers, addressed his fans directly from his home in Dublin.

“Hello, my darlings,” he began, his voice trembling. “I’ve never been one for beating around the bush, so I’ll just come out and say it. I’ve been diagnosed with cancer. It’s been a tough few months, and I’ve kept it quiet while I got my head around it and started treatment. But it’s time to tell you all the truth.”

O’Carroll went on to explain that the cancer was discovered during routine medical checks late last year. While he did not disclose the specific type or stage of the illness, he described it as “serious” and said it has required aggressive treatment that has taken a significant toll on his health and energy.

“The doctors are doing everything they can, and I’m fighting this with everything I’ve got,” he said. “But I have to be honest with you – I’m not as strong as I used to be. The treatment knocks the stuffing out of you, and some days it’s hard to even get out of bed, never mind put on the wig and get into character.”

The most devastating part of the announcement came when O’Carroll confirmed that Mrs. Brown’s Boys, the groundbreaking sitcom that has brought laughter to millions since 2011, will come to an end in mid-2026.

“This is the hardest thing I’ve ever had to say,” he continued, pausing to compose himself. “But after long talks with my family, the cast, and the BBC, we’ve made the decision that the upcoming specials this year will be the last. The show will finish properly in the middle of 2026, with a final Christmas special and a proper goodbye. It’s time to let Mrs. Brown hang up her cardigan for good.”

He added with a weak smile, “Don’t worry – she’ll go out with a bang, not a whimper. We’ll give you one last proper laugh before we say goodbye.”

The news has sent shockwaves through the entertainment world and among the show’s devoted global fanbase. Mrs. Brown’s Boys has been a cultural phenomenon for over a decade, breaking records with its live tours, winning multiple National Television Awards, and becoming a staple of BBC One’s Christmas Day schedule. Its unique blend of scripted comedy, breaking the fourth wall, and improvised audience interaction made it unlike anything else on television.

Co-stars were quick to share their grief and support. Jennifer Gibney, who plays Cathy Brown and is O’Carroll’s real-life wife, posted a heartfelt message: “My heart is broken, but I am so proud of my husband for his courage. We will get through this together, as a family – on screen and off. Thank you for all the love you’ve shown us over the years.”

Danny O’Carroll, Brendan’s son who plays Buster Brady, wrote: “Dad is the strongest man I know. This disease picked the wrong fella to mess with. We love you, Da.”

The BBC released a short statement: “We are deeply saddened to hear Brendan’s news. Mrs. Brown’s Boys has been a treasured part of British and Irish television for many years, and Brendan is a national treasure. Our thoughts are with him, his family, and the entire cast and crew during this difficult time. We will continue to support them in bringing the show to a fitting and joyful conclusion.”

Fans flooded social media with messages of love and support within minutes of the announcement. The hashtag #StayStrongBrendan quickly trended worldwide, alongside #ThankYouMrsBrown.

One fan wrote: “Mrs. Brown got me through some of the darkest times of my life with laughter. Brendan, you’ve given us so much joy. Now it’s our turn to send love and strength back to you.”

Another said: “This hurts more than I can say. Brendan O’Carroll isn’t just an actor – he’s family to so many of us. Praying for a miracle.”

O’Carroll ended his video with a message of gratitude and hope: “You lot – my fans – you’ve been with me every step of the way. You’ve laughed with me, cried with me, and made Mrs. Brown the success she is. I can never thank you enough. Keep laughing, keep loving each other, and don’t take a single day for granted. That’s all Mrs. Brown ever wanted.”

He signed off in character, with a quiet but defiant: “That’s nice.”

As the world processes this devastating news, one thing is clear: Brendan O’Carroll and his unforgettable creation, Agnes Brown, have left an indelible mark on comedy and on the hearts of millions. The final chapters of Mrs. Brown’s Boys will be bittersweet, but they will be watched with more love and appreciation than ever before.

Our thoughts are with Brendan, his family, and everyone involved with the show during this incredibly difficult time.

Feck cancer. Stay strong, Brendan. We love you.