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The Real Mrs. Brown: The Authorised Biography of Brendan O'Carroll
Who'd have thought a potty-mouthed Dublin mammy with a cream cardigan and elasticated tan tights could storm British TV screens and leave a nation helpless with laughter? Brendan O'Carroll performs to tens of thousands of people a night in packed-out stadiums across the country. In the last four years Brendan's TV show has become a number 1 ratings success, and he's even making a movie. But Brendan has had to battle hard for success. The youngest of eleven children, his mother was Maureen O'Carroll, a former nun who went on to become the first woman to be elected to the Irish parliament. Brendan adored his strong, widowed mother—and she later became the inspiration for his indomitable character Agnes Brown. However, the family endured poverty reminiscent of Angela's Ashes and Brendan saw no option but to leave school at 12 to work. He married young and for decades struggled to make ends meet. Eventually, bankrupt and desperate, Brendan went to see a fortune teller who told him she could see his future achieving worldwide success as a comedian and actor. At first Brendan laughed at the notion, but then he thought of how much his friends loved his gags, and decided to give it a go. This is the magical story of how a loveable Irishman with a wig and a wit as caustic as battery acid surprised everyone—most of all himself—by becoming one of the best-loved comedians in the world. It is a story of hardship, heartbreak, and talent, and will remind readers afresh that sometimes the facts can be even more extraordinary than the fiction.
384 pages, Hardcover
First published September 12, 2013
64 people are currently reading
252 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
July 11, 2015
"Brendan O'Carroll has the ability to make you feel like you're the most important person in the world."
"In February 1955, Maureen O'Carroll had real reason to take to her bed. The 41-year-old mother of nine felt sick. She had serious stomach problems. And she worried there was something badly wrong. Or perhaps she was going through the change? Her doctor examined her. That night she went home and wrote in her diary: 'Went to see Dr. Carney today. I'm either pregnant or I have a growth. (Please, God it's a growth.)'
Seven months later, on 15 September, the growth arrived weighing nine pounds three ounces. She called it Brendan."
Brendan O'Carroll is a remarkable man. The youngest (and perhaps cheekiest) of 10 children, his belief in himself has put him where he is today. From drawing on his memories of own mother Maureen - a strong-minded, independent, hard-working woman who would do anything for her children - he has created a character that has brought laughter to millions of people. A Positive Mental Attitude course he took a few decades ago has reaffirmed what he has always believed - that if you really want to, you can fly.
I really, really enjoyed this book. Brendan is an extremely intelligent and quick-witted man, and has had some incredible ideas throughout the years. But where would he leave it - his politician mother Maureen was instrumental in politics in 50's Dublin - campaigning tirelessly for women's rights, for example getting the word 'illegitimate' remvoved from birth certificates. She became not only the first female Chief Whip in any political parliament, but also Labour's Shadow Minister for Foreign Affairs.
Even when Brendan was down on his luck, or made poor investments, he still remained positive. "The world turns every twenty-four hours, so relax and let it happen. And if there's a problem you have to find a solution. But if you try, the solution will find you."
He is much, much more than just "a crude little boll*x" as some critics have christened him. Even if Mrs. Brown and her boys are not your cup of tea, this is a fantastic story of a man who will try and do his best at whatever he does - be it comedy or waiting on tables. He believes in the people around him, and they in him.
"In February 1955, Maureen O'Carroll had real reason to take to her bed. The 41-year-old mother of nine felt sick. She had serious stomach problems. And she worried there was something badly wrong. Or perhaps she was going through the change? Her doctor examined her. That night she went home and wrote in her diary: 'Went to see Dr. Carney today. I'm either pregnant or I have a growth. (Please, God it's a growth.)'
Seven months later, on 15 September, the growth arrived weighing nine pounds three ounces. She called it Brendan."
Brendan O'Carroll is a remarkable man. The youngest (and perhaps cheekiest) of 10 children, his belief in himself has put him where he is today. From drawing on his memories of own mother Maureen - a strong-minded, independent, hard-working woman who would do anything for her children - he has created a character that has brought laughter to millions of people. A Positive Mental Attitude course he took a few decades ago has reaffirmed what he has always believed - that if you really want to, you can fly.
I really, really enjoyed this book. Brendan is an extremely intelligent and quick-witted man, and has had some incredible ideas throughout the years. But where would he leave it - his politician mother Maureen was instrumental in politics in 50's Dublin - campaigning tirelessly for women's rights, for example getting the word 'illegitimate' remvoved from birth certificates. She became not only the first female Chief Whip in any political parliament, but also Labour's Shadow Minister for Foreign Affairs.
Even when Brendan was down on his luck, or made poor investments, he still remained positive. "The world turns every twenty-four hours, so relax and let it happen. And if there's a problem you have to find a solution. But if you try, the solution will find you."
He is much, much more than just "a crude little boll*x" as some critics have christened him. Even if Mrs. Brown and her boys are not your cup of tea, this is a fantastic story of a man who will try and do his best at whatever he does - be it comedy or waiting on tables. He believes in the people around him, and they in him.
December 3, 2024
A delightful peek into the man behind the mammy. I just wish the biographer’s writing style was easier to follow.
February 6, 2026
Such a fun read. Can relate to much of this story people and places. Shows brilliant too!
March 3, 2021
I loved it. A very good read and very funny
December 28, 2013
I am currently at the tail end of judging the Children's section of the Aurealis Awards and was in the need of an 'adult' read. Fortunately my beloved husband had given me this biography on that holiday that occurs towards the end of the year and the time in which to read it.
I'm so glad he did. I took a day and a half out of my judging schedule, lay on the couch with various cups of coffee/glasses of wine and settled down to be entertained.
And entertained I was. This work was a wonderful insight into the legend and the people, past and present, who helped make the man who became Mrs Agnes Brown. As a huge Mrs Brown fan, I went into this book hoping to gain some gossip about the show and the tight family that make up its cast and I was not disappointed. As a writer and matriach to a large family, I not only enjoy seeing how people tick, I love seeing how they tick when exposed to family, friends, enemies, joys, adversity and life in its multi-coloured and multi-layered forms. A joy to read, especially as it reinforces the notion that today's failures set you up for tomorrow's successes, just so long as you're willing to get up and keep moving forward.
Of particular joy to me was reading about Maureen O'Connor, a woman who seems to have changed the social play of Ireland singlehandedly. Talk about working-class hero, Brendan's mother it seems, was a force for good in a repressed society and we get to see how she reshaped the structure of the system, bringing it into a modern setting.
So, why 4 stars and not 5? Because, like the play and the TV series, there are bits in the book I've read elsewhere, usually in a newspaper report. When you read certain sections word for word that have appeared elsewhere in print, it's easy to wonder which came first, the article or the bio?
But, despite these minor reservations, this was a fantastic read nonetheless.
I'm so glad he did. I took a day and a half out of my judging schedule, lay on the couch with various cups of coffee/glasses of wine and settled down to be entertained.
And entertained I was. This work was a wonderful insight into the legend and the people, past and present, who helped make the man who became Mrs Agnes Brown. As a huge Mrs Brown fan, I went into this book hoping to gain some gossip about the show and the tight family that make up its cast and I was not disappointed. As a writer and matriach to a large family, I not only enjoy seeing how people tick, I love seeing how they tick when exposed to family, friends, enemies, joys, adversity and life in its multi-coloured and multi-layered forms. A joy to read, especially as it reinforces the notion that today's failures set you up for tomorrow's successes, just so long as you're willing to get up and keep moving forward.
Of particular joy to me was reading about Maureen O'Connor, a woman who seems to have changed the social play of Ireland singlehandedly. Talk about working-class hero, Brendan's mother it seems, was a force for good in a repressed society and we get to see how she reshaped the structure of the system, bringing it into a modern setting.
So, why 4 stars and not 5? Because, like the play and the TV series, there are bits in the book I've read elsewhere, usually in a newspaper report. When you read certain sections word for word that have appeared elsewhere in print, it's easy to wonder which came first, the article or the bio?
But, despite these minor reservations, this was a fantastic read nonetheless.
April 19, 2014
I have really enjoyed this book (not read much just lately due to frenzied activities in other quarters). Brendan O'Carroll seems a thoroughly kind, hardworking and genuine man. A family man at heart and a man you'd want to have as a friend. A truly heart-warming story.
November 6, 2013
an interesting book im not sure I could have had the courage Brendan had to keep going through all the knock backs he took but he is a surviver good on him
December 26, 2013
What an amazing life this man has had.I enjoyed the journey through his world looking forward to seeing him live
January 6, 2014
Interesting life story.
January 17, 2014
This was a great bio - didn't take long to read as it was very interesting and I couldn't put it down!:)
November 8, 2014
Whether you are a Mrs Brown's Boys fan or not this book is worth a read! Brendan O'Carroll has had a super interesting life so far with crazy highs and lows.
June 9, 2020
I loved the book did not know he had such a interesting past i guess you never really think about celebrities coming from rags to riches
January 22, 2022
This is an old biography of Brendan O'Carroll, written just before he found more fame on the bbc. I am a fan of his probably because it's not a sanitised comedy made by bright new things whom we are all supposed to find funny, and in reality most are not at all amusing. Brendan O'Carroll is quite believable as a woman, and I don't really mind the language, although I suppose that depends on where you were brought up!
I think the problem today is that everyone seems to think that the world revolves around London and the south east, when in reality there is more of Britain out there than that. Which means that the majority of people in this country are living ordinary lives in ordinary towns and go about doing ordinary things, which means that they often like their comedies to be earthy and a different kind of funny which is different to the more affluent parts of the country! Which explains why Mrs Brown's boys doesn't appeal to critics living totally different lives, not having to worry how they are going to feed or clothe their families or how to pay the bills, and not being able to afford family holidays, not even for a day trip. Their lives aren't the norm, their comedy isn't earthy, their lives aren't lived how millions of others live. Real earthy making you smile for half an hour or more comedy such as this not something they would want to watch, can you imagine meeting friends in a top restaurant and discussing Mrs Brown's boys instead of the latest West End play or latest ballet or opera! It just isn't done. Life can be so much more different out of London and the more affluent parts of the country. End of lecture!!!
I didn't know anything about Brendan's early life but it certainly was hard, living in a very rundown part of Dublin, father dying when he was young, mother was a MP but spent most of her time trying to help others and ruling her family with a rod of iron but cushioned with a cushion! The best thing she ever did for her family was to teach them to aim high, to push themselves, nothing will come to them if they do nothing with their lives, and most importantly to believe in themselves.
With that mantra running through Brendan's DNA he did push himself in many ventures until he found the one which was right for him. I didn't know that he had written plays, wrote several books which sold in many parts of the world, was on the radio as well as touring. How he remained loyal to those he employed and supported, most of whom were his friends and family, none of whom went to RADA, and you don't want to let your friends and family down, that he supports many charities because they needed support when he was young. I like Mrs Brown's boys.
Although I think the author didn't do full justice to his subject.
I think the problem today is that everyone seems to think that the world revolves around London and the south east, when in reality there is more of Britain out there than that. Which means that the majority of people in this country are living ordinary lives in ordinary towns and go about doing ordinary things, which means that they often like their comedies to be earthy and a different kind of funny which is different to the more affluent parts of the country! Which explains why Mrs Brown's boys doesn't appeal to critics living totally different lives, not having to worry how they are going to feed or clothe their families or how to pay the bills, and not being able to afford family holidays, not even for a day trip. Their lives aren't the norm, their comedy isn't earthy, their lives aren't lived how millions of others live. Real earthy making you smile for half an hour or more comedy such as this not something they would want to watch, can you imagine meeting friends in a top restaurant and discussing Mrs Brown's boys instead of the latest West End play or latest ballet or opera! It just isn't done. Life can be so much more different out of London and the more affluent parts of the country. End of lecture!!!
I didn't know anything about Brendan's early life but it certainly was hard, living in a very rundown part of Dublin, father dying when he was young, mother was a MP but spent most of her time trying to help others and ruling her family with a rod of iron but cushioned with a cushion! The best thing she ever did for her family was to teach them to aim high, to push themselves, nothing will come to them if they do nothing with their lives, and most importantly to believe in themselves.
With that mantra running through Brendan's DNA he did push himself in many ventures until he found the one which was right for him. I didn't know that he had written plays, wrote several books which sold in many parts of the world, was on the radio as well as touring. How he remained loyal to those he employed and supported, most of whom were his friends and family, none of whom went to RADA, and you don't want to let your friends and family down, that he supports many charities because they needed support when he was young. I like Mrs Brown's boys.
Although I think the author didn't do full justice to his subject.
April 18, 2022
Firstly, I need to say I never usually read biogrpahies that are not written by the person themselves. I didn't notice this was written by someone else when I first picked this up from a charity shop, it was only when I came to get the book to read I noticed it wasn't by Brendan O'Carroll himself.
I was already disappointed as I knew from past experience I don't enjoy the books as much when it's not written by their own words. I gave it a chance, and whilst it was an OK read, I did find it being not so comical as I felt it could have been had it been written by Brendan himself.
Yes, it was nice to read about his early life and his many struggles growing up in Ireland and then having a family of his own, and then to read about how the whole Mrs Brown thing came around, it was just not very gripping because it wasn't his own words. There are a lot of quotations from Brendan within the book, but this takes away from the comedy side of things that could have been placed had he written it himself. I am confident given how well he has created the whole play of Mrs Brown and family, he could have written this book himself even with his eyes closed and it would have been much more appealing and a lot more comedic. His only reason for not writing the book himself was that he didn't have the time, and I understand that. I just find it a shame!
A decent enough read, but could have been better and more personal.
I was already disappointed as I knew from past experience I don't enjoy the books as much when it's not written by their own words. I gave it a chance, and whilst it was an OK read, I did find it being not so comical as I felt it could have been had it been written by Brendan himself.
Yes, it was nice to read about his early life and his many struggles growing up in Ireland and then having a family of his own, and then to read about how the whole Mrs Brown thing came around, it was just not very gripping because it wasn't his own words. There are a lot of quotations from Brendan within the book, but this takes away from the comedy side of things that could have been placed had he written it himself. I am confident given how well he has created the whole play of Mrs Brown and family, he could have written this book himself even with his eyes closed and it would have been much more appealing and a lot more comedic. His only reason for not writing the book himself was that he didn't have the time, and I understand that. I just find it a shame!
A decent enough read, but could have been better and more personal.
July 1, 2018
I love Mrs Brown’s Boys and have from the moment I first saw it. Agnes Brown represents a certain genre of Irish women and my Nan was one of them. Women who did not compare themselves to others, had no time for low self esteem and petty vanity. Women who were not fearful of disciplining their own children nor anyone else’s proving that boundaries not spoiling is what shows a child they matter. Women who do not run down the road to meet trouble but refuse to run from it when it arrives. I couldn’t believe someone could capture that essence so perfectly but Brendan O’Carroll nails it. And now having read his story, I admire him more than I thought possible. I could not put this book down. Brendan proves that nothing is impossible and even when you reached rock bottom, you can claw your way back to the top with the right attitude. Brian Beacom does a grand job of telling this fabulous rags to riches to rags to riches to rags and back to riches story. I love it!!
May 4, 2017
My mother loves Mrs Browns Boys so I wasnt surprised when she told me I needed to read this autobiography on Brendan's career.
The book initially tells the story of Brendans childhood and the strong bond he had with his Mammy. It then goes on to tell of all of the job opportunities he takes (and some that he wishes he didnt take). The story really starts to show direction when on-the-fly Brendan is asked to think of an idea for a radio skit. This is where Mrs Browne (later to drop the 'e') was born. This fictional character, who is every bit as sassy as his own mother, would eventually turn Brendans world up side down.
Filled with wonderful people, this book lets you see into the world of a budding actor/producer/writer.
I would recommend this book to anyone who is a fan of the show. I think I might go watch an episode of this show myself :)
September 13, 2022
I wouldn’t say I’m a Mrs Brown fan, but if there’s nothing on and I come across an episode whilst flicking though the channels, I generally stop to have a bit of a giggle. We have an Irish branch to the family so it always reminds me of them and my mother-in-law was a bit similar to Mrs Brown. I have to say I knew nothing of where the series came from and the man behind the series, so this was enlightening. He’s quite a character and very brave to make some go through career moves he has, leaving him at times owing great deals of money. It just goes to show hard work, determination and self belief can really get you a long way.
July 13, 2024
I love Mrs brown's boys so I had to give this a read to find out how it had all started. This gives a great insight into Brendan's childhood and adult life. It takes us through all the struggles and the achievements. It's amazing how many knockbacks he has had and yet never truly gave up. He always stayed positive and had total belief in Mrs Brown. And what a success he has made of her!! I don't usually read biographies as I prefer a person's story to be told by them rather than by someone else. I do feel this would have retained more of his humour if it had been written solely by him. Nevertheless it was an enjoyable read and I for one am glad that he never gave up on Mrs Brown.
May 5, 2021
Very interesting family life.
I always find it so refreshing to read a biography about some “superstar” celebrity who isn’t too impressed with their celebrity status.
I’m sure his family upbringing will bring lots of connecting memories to many who grew up within the same confines.
It seems to me that growing up without too much, and having a solid moral compass, leads to an adult who can really appreciate the things that really matter in a happy, decent life. (And obviously recognize, and point out, all the shite that doesn’t matter.) GREAT READ.
I always find it so refreshing to read a biography about some “superstar” celebrity who isn’t too impressed with their celebrity status.
I’m sure his family upbringing will bring lots of connecting memories to many who grew up within the same confines.
It seems to me that growing up without too much, and having a solid moral compass, leads to an adult who can really appreciate the things that really matter in a happy, decent life. (And obviously recognize, and point out, all the shite that doesn’t matter.) GREAT READ.
April 1, 2020
Cleverly written autobiography.
Having just read Lee Jack's autobiography, I found myself slightly disappointed with Brendan's. There was nothing wrong with content, but because it was written in the third person style, it did feel as though it lacked that very special personal touch. That is only my opinion though, and I feel sure Mrs Brown's fan base will not be disappointed to learn much more about the man himself, behind the much loved comedy face.
Having just read Lee Jack's autobiography, I found myself slightly disappointed with Brendan's. There was nothing wrong with content, but because it was written in the third person style, it did feel as though it lacked that very special personal touch. That is only my opinion though, and I feel sure Mrs Brown's fan base will not be disappointed to learn much more about the man himself, behind the much loved comedy face.
September 9, 2022
Author was boring
I wish Brendan O‘Carroll had written the book. The author tried, but couldn’t turn the spark over. He was so redundant and downright boring at times. I had to put the book down and force myself to go on reading. The story itself is very amazing and while I believe the author was enthusiastic he couldn’t hold my interest. If the story wasn’t about Mr O‘Carroll I would not have bothered reading the book to the end.
I wish Brendan O‘Carroll had written the book. The author tried, but couldn’t turn the spark over. He was so redundant and downright boring at times. I had to put the book down and force myself to go on reading. The story itself is very amazing and while I believe the author was enthusiastic he couldn’t hold my interest. If the story wasn’t about Mr O‘Carroll I would not have bothered reading the book to the end.
December 15, 2025
I thought this was going to be better then it is. Thats why its taken me soooo long to read it.
Its nice seeing into his life where he has come from to where he is now. And you dont realise how much he has been in till you read it.
Its the writing of it i just couldnt get into. This is the trouble when its written by someone else. I find if the person writes it themself it gives it warmth, depth but this is like reading an interview in a newspaper
Its nice seeing into his life where he has come from to where he is now. And you dont realise how much he has been in till you read it.
Its the writing of it i just couldnt get into. This is the trouble when its written by someone else. I find if the person writes it themself it gives it warmth, depth but this is like reading an interview in a newspaper
October 5, 2017
Loved every page, not normally a biography fan, but was interested in reading about the mind behind Mrs Brown. So pleased I did, he has had a really interesting life so far and the reason for the 5 * review - I love how it's his positive mental attitude that has helped him through out all his life and now brought him success too.
August 5, 2018
A great lesson in the harder you work the luckier you get. With laughs
A well written autobiography which kept me turning pages and making me irritable if I had to leave it to do ,stuff,!
With humour and pathos it paints a wonderful picture of a brilliant comedian and his years of struggle to achieve overnight success.
A well written autobiography which kept me turning pages and making me irritable if I had to leave it to do ,stuff,!
With humour and pathos it paints a wonderful picture of a brilliant comedian and his years of struggle to achieve overnight success.
January 5, 2021
An interesting read. I was hoping for a bit more substance as far as background, information about the author's growing up years. There was some, but maybe I was expecting too much, wanting the book to be a memoir of things past when the author focused more on events leading up to his (very talented) personification of Mrs. Brown. Still, a fast, enjoyable and easy read.
July 27, 2020
Would have preferred if Brendon had written it himself.
The book was quite good, not the best autobiography I have read, I skipped a bit in the middle regarding Brandon's problems with different ventures as it was a bit long winded. But I read it to the end.
The book was quite good, not the best autobiography I have read, I skipped a bit in the middle regarding Brandon's problems with different ventures as it was a bit long winded. But I read it to the end.
March 9, 2022
Not the best of written autobiographies but it was very interesting.
Shows just how much determination Brendan O'Carroll had and how he managed to overcome adversity.
His ability to make people laugh is arguably his greatest asset but that is matched by his love of his family.
Shows just how much determination Brendan O'Carroll had and how he managed to overcome adversity.
His ability to make people laugh is arguably his greatest asset but that is matched by his love of his family.
November 21, 2023
I’m glad I read Brendan’s autobiography first. It’s interesting how the two books are similar in contact (I guess the subject matter is the same). I feel like this one fills in the information the other left out; or at least expands on some things. Another fun read for Mrs. Brown fans.
November 30, 2024
I enjoyed the book but would sometimes get a bit confused as the author would sometimes flit between first person and third person but ot didn't spoil the book
3 stars not a must read but still worth it
3 stars not a must read but still worth it
March 11, 2020
It had moments of brilliance then lots of ‘yawn’ moments. Maybe one day I’ll finish the last 1/3. Probably not.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews