MRS Brown's Boys star Brendan O'Carroll has apologised for making a racist remark which sparked a BBC investigation.
The Irish comedian, 69, used an offensive term during a read-through of this year's Christmas special with cast and crew last Wednesday.
Those present were said to have been shocked by the slur and flagged it with the BBC, which acted immediately.
The Beeb ordered an urgent probe, meaning rehearsals for the Christmas special were temporarily suspended.
Last night, O'Carroll told the Mirror: "At a read-through of the Mrs Brown's Boys Christmas specials, there was a clumsy attempt at a joke, where a racial term was implied.
"It backfired and caused offence, which I deeply regret and for which I have apologised." The corporation added: "While we don't comment on individuals, the BBC is against all forms of racism and we have robust processes in place should issues ever arise." O'Carroll is the creator of the hit sitcom, which began in 2011, and plays title character Agnes Brown, the matriarch of a large Irish family.
Mrs Brown's Boys has been a ratings hit for the BBC and has won Best comedy at the National Television Awards six times.
The BBC has only recently commissioned a fifth series, with production LEADER Tim Davie set to get under way in spring, as well as the festive specials.
A source said: "The whole production of the Christmas special was paused while the investigation was carried out.
Denne historien er fra October 15, 2024-utgaven av Daily Mirror UK.
Start din 7-dagers gratis prøveperiode på Magzter GOLD for å få tilgang til tusenvis av utvalgte premiumhistorier og 9000+ magasiner og aviser.
Allerede abonnent ? Logg på
Denne historien er fra October 15, 2024-utgaven av Daily Mirror UK.
Start din 7-dagers gratis prøveperiode på Magzter GOLD for å få tilgang til tusenvis av utvalgte premiumhistorier og 9000+ magasiner og aviser.
Allerede abonnent? Logg på
BRAVERU WORLD
United stars are bracing themselves for a huge shake-up under Amorim and De Ligt admits that they must be ready
MERINO: WE MUST BE SPECIAL
Mikel: We must forget recent blip, stay positive & win every gave
CHANGES.OR DIE
Gusto says having a big Chelsea squad isn't a problem...it's vital if the Blues want to build a winning team
HIT THE WRIGHT WAIT NOTE
Boss jeered as Oz player but hopes Hull fans will soon sing his praises
GP didn't tell family of low' teen's suicide plan TRAGEDY
Anger over experts' double error
REFFING & BLINDING
Prem official is suspended for sweary Klopp rant film
told or Grenadian neighbour, left Red alert on pace of climate change
Stark report at Cop29 summit
Glowing old gracef
Linda's joy at non-surgical facelift result
Ex-soldier admits escaping jail strapped under a lorrý
Khalife changes plea but still on spy rap
My mum's killer came out of his home & his evil eyes flashed at me
Son confronts Muriel's murderer, 55 years on