He may have lost out on the trophy, but Brendan O’Carroll isn’t losing heart — or his beloved Mrs Brown. The 69-year-old Irish comedy legend has confirmed that his hit sitcom Mrs Brown’s Boys will stay on air for as long as the BBC wants it, even after being beaten by Gavin and Stacey at this year’s National Television Awards.
“As long as the BBC say, ‘keep making it,’ I’m going to keep making it,” Brendan declared with a grin as he walked the red carpet at London’s O2 Arena — proudly wearing a rainbow blazer splashed with neon pink, orange, and blue.
A Tradition He’ll Never Let Go Of
Asked whether, after more than a decade on screen, he still enjoys making the show, O’Carroll didn’t hesitate:
“F*** yeah! People ask me when I start thinking about the Christmas special — I tell them January 1st! I think about it all year.”
For him, the Mrs Brown’s Boys Christmas episodes have become a cherished family ritual, both on and off screen.
“It’s warm, it’s family, it’s tradition — and my whole family’s in it. When you watch it on Christmas Day, that’s the first time we see it too.”
Since its 2011 debut, Mrs Brown’s Boys has been a cornerstone of the BBC’s holiday schedule, pulling in millions of viewers and laughter across generations.
Family, Faith, and Funny Business
Written and led by O’Carroll, the sitcom’s magic lies in its authenticity — he stars alongside his real-life wife Jennifer Gibney (who plays Cathy), blending family warmth with outrageous humour that fans can’t get enough of.
“It’s the people — that’s what keeps it special,” he said. “We make each other laugh as much as we make the audience laugh.”
Losing the Award, Winning the Night
Despite Mrs Brown’s Boys being edged out by Gavin and Stacey for Best Comedy, O’Carroll kept his spirits high.
“To still be here, still nominated — that’s the joy for me,” he smiled, later joining the press room to cheer on his fellow comedy stars.
Other major winners of the night included I’m A Celebrity, Strictly Come Dancing, and Gary Lineker, who made headlines for ending Ant & Dec’s 23-year winning streak as Best Presenters.
The Final Word
Brendan O’Carroll’s message was clear: Mrs Brown’s Boys isn’t going anywhere.
Through laughter, family, and festive chaos, he promises fans that Agnes Brown will keep running the show — cardigan, curlers, and all. 
