A once-beloved Christmas tradition is facing a storm of criticism. The latest special of the comedy seriesMrs. Brown’s Boyshas sparked a fierce backlash from viewers, with many declaring it a disappointment and questioning its continued presence on television.
The show, which debuted in 2011, centers around the boisterous Agnes Brown and her often chaotic family life. Created by and starring Brendan O’Carroll, it quickly became a ratings juggernaut, reliably drawing millions of viewers each Christmas and New Year’s Day.
This year, however, the festive offering fell remarkably flat. The episode, which hinted at a heartwarming Christmas photo and Buster’s elaborate tree, failed to deliver the laughs audiences had come to expect. Instead, it was met with a chorus of disapproval, even from long-time fans.
Critics were particularly scathing. One review described the special as “excruciating” and reaching “unimaginable new depths of unfunniness.” The assessment went on to question the BBC’s continued investment in a show deemed lazy in its writing and weak in its execution.
Another critic labeled it one of O’Carroll’s “flattest festive forays yet,” lamenting the lack of genuine humor and a plot that felt stale and uninspired. The sentiment resonated with many viewers who took to social media to voice their discontent.
Online, the complaints were brutal and inventive. Comparisons ranged from enduring painful medical procedures to running barefoot over Lego bricks, illustrating the depth of viewers’ frustration. Some even suggested they’d prefer watching past pandemic briefings to another episode.
Despite the widespread negativity, a dissenting voice argued that the show doesn’t deserve the animosity, attributing the criticism to a degree of snobbery. The writer acknowledged the show’s simple premise and cheap jokes, but defended its heart and lack of malicious intent.
The decline in viewership figures tells a clear story. Once attracting over 8.5 million viewers, the Christmas special recently drew a mere 1.5 million. Yet, the show is slated to return for another episode on New Year’s Day, promising a storm, a parachute jump, and a lost nun.
Brendan O’Carroll himself has acknowledged the subjective nature of comedy, stating he doesn’t take the criticism too seriously. He maintains that the show’s longevity is due to the unwavering support of its fans, not the praise of reviewers.
The future ofMrs. Brown’s Boysremains uncertain, but the recent uproar has undoubtedly raised questions about its place in the modern television landscape. Whether it can recapture its former glory or fade into television history remains to be seen.
