Fans all had the same complaint as they tuned in on Christmas Day.

Mrs Brown’s Boys to return to BBC One for live anniversary special

Mrs Brown’s Boys returned for a Christmas special (Image: BBC)

Mrs Brown’s Boys was back for another Christmas special, called Mammy’s Bottles – but fans were left fuming as they tuned into the BBC.

The episode saw Mrs Brown “rediscover the meaning of family” as she gathered those closest to her together for a Christmas photo. Elsewhere in the 30-minute programme, Buster unveiled another of his signature Christmas trees with maximum impact, and Cathy fretted about what presents to buy everyone. It follows the new season that aired earlier in 2025 and it also is not the only festive instalment. Yet another special episode is set to air on New Year’s Day. Taking to X/Twitter, one fan said: “The BBC have just witnessed the biggest switch off in their history as they announce the Christmas special of #mrsbrownsboys.” Another added: “A s*** #eastenders and now #MrsBrownsBoys ??! I’m off to bed!”

Mrs Brown's Boys Christmas special

Fans complained about the Christmas Day episode (Image: BBC)

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While some fans refused to watch, others remained on the fence and others said the show was the highlight of their night. One viewer wrote: “Okay, that VR bit with granddad is probably the only funny thing #MrsBrownsBoys has produced in the past decade.”

Someone else hit out: “What’s with all the people whining about #MrsBrownsBoys? If you don’t like it, change the f***ing channel and move on. Stop ruining it for the people who enjoy it.”

Despite some critics’ disapproval of the show’s old-fashioned slapstick humour and jokes, the star of the show, Brendan O’Carroll, insists that the fans adore it.

Interestingly, he hasn’t previewed this year’s episode yet. Instead, he watches with everyone else in the country as the episode airs, maintaining the tradition that the first viewing for him and the rest of the cast will be on Christmas night.

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The entire family, many of whom feature in the show, will gather at his and wife Jenny’s home in Blanchardstown, donned in their pyjamas along with the grandchildren, to enjoy the show together on Christmas night.

The second special is set to air on the evening of January 1. The preview for the second special, called Stormin’ Mammy, reads: “Tensions are high as Agnes and the gang prepare for an incoming storm.

“Buster’s flying high as he nervously awaits his birthday parachute jump. Winnie receives a shock to the system and a lost Nun looks for help.”