For more than a decade, Mrs Brown’s Boys has been a staple of British comedy — delivering cheeky one-liners, slapstick humor, and the unfiltered chaos of Agnes Brown’s world. But now, as the show rolls out its fifth season on BBC One, the backlash has reached a fever pitch.
Critics and viewers alike are calling the sitcom “outdated,” “lazy,” and even “the worst show the BBC has ever aired,” sparking heated debate over whether it’s time for the comedy classic to finally take its final bow.
Mrs Brown’s Boys: viewers missed important scenes of simulated sex with a cupboard. Photograph: BBC/Alan Peebles
From Beloved Comedy to Backlash
When Mrs Brown’s Boys debuted in 2011, it quickly became a national treasure. Brendan O’Carroll, the man behind the iconic Agnes Brown, was praised for bringing a fresh, irreverent twist to family sitcoms. The series pulled in millions of viewers, spawned live tours, and even led to a feature film in 2014.
But in 2025, the tone has shifted. Social media is flooded with frustrated comments as viewers accuse the show of recycling old jokes, relying on outdated stereotypes, and failing to evolve with the times.
“It’s just the same thing over and over,” one viewer wrote on X. “What used to feel cheeky now feels cringeworthy. BBC needs to let it go.”
Another fan didn’t hold back, calling it “a show stuck in 2011 that should have been retired years ago.”
Critical Reviews Turn Harsh
The media has also joined in on the criticism. Several television reviewers have described the latest season as “a tired rehash of the past”, noting that the humor hasn’t aged well. One critic from The Independent wrote:
“What was once edgy and fresh now feels forced, awkward, and painfully unfunny. The BBC is clinging to a brand that has lost its spark.”
Despite the negativity, Mrs Brown’s Boys still maintains a loyal fanbase that tunes in each week, praising Brendan O’Carroll and the cast for delivering “comfort comedy” in an increasingly serious world.
The BBC Responds
Facing mounting criticism, the BBC has defended the sitcom, citing its strong ratings and global following.
“Mrs Brown’s Boys remains one of our most-watched comedy series,” a BBC spokesperson said. “It continues to bring families together, and we’re proud to share new episodes with audiences.”
Brendan O’Carroll, now 69, has also brushed off the backlash, insisting that the show stays true to its roots.
“Comedy is subjective,” he said in a recent interview. “People are entitled to their opinions. But as long as fans are still laughing, we’ll keep making the show.”
Is It Time to Say Goodbye?
With ratings still holding steady but criticism louder than ever, the future of Mrs Brown’s Boys remains uncertain.
Fans are left wondering: Will the BBC make bold changes to modernize the series, or is it finally time for Agnes Brown to hang up her apron?
One thing is clear — whether loved or loathed, Mrs Brown’s Boys continues to spark conversation, proving that even after more than a decade, few shows can divide audiences quite like it.
