Mrs Brown Returns After Historic Ratings Low at Christmas 2025

Mrs Brown’s Boys Faces Declining Viewership

Mrs Brown’s Boys, the television programme created by and starring Brendan O’Carroll featuring Agnes Brown and several of O’Carroll’s close friends and family members, has returned with its festive offerings, but not without controversy. The recent Christmas episode titled ‘Mammy’s Bottles’ attracted only 1.6 million viewers, a significant drop from previous years, marking a historic low for the BBC comedy staple.

New Year’s Special Continues Despite Christmas Disappointment

Undeterred by the Christmas Day performance, the Mrs Brown’s Boys 2026 New Year’s special landed on New Year’s Day (Thursday, January 1) in the UK. Agnes (Brendan O’Carroll) is trying to prepare the gang for an incoming storm, but tensions are running high, whilst Buster (Danny O’Carroll) is preparing for a birthday parachute jump and Winnie (Elish O’Carroll) receives a shock to the system.

The Show’s Enduring Legacy and Future

Mrs Brown’s Boys has been a part of the BBC’s festive schedule for nearly fifteen years, and with the show now back to airing semi-regular mini-seasons, it shows no sign of slowing down. In April 2025, it was announced that a fifth series of four episodes had been commissioned which were filmed in May 2025, and was broadcast on BBC1 on 1 August 2025.

Despite the recent decline in viewership, the sitcom continues to divide audiences. The show has received poor reviews by critics, but became a ratings success in both Ireland, where it is set, and the United Kingdom, where it is recorded. The Christmas and New Year specials remain a traditional fixture, with the show commissioned to continue producing festive episodes, demonstrating that Agnes Brown’s appeal endures despite changing television viewing habits.