BBC to air controversial Diane Morgan special that 'was cancelled over Trump fears'

A cancelled special episode of Diane Morgan’s hit BBC comedy Mandy will be aired - months after it was reportedly pulled for political reasons. Cunk On Cinema star Morgan, 50, said last month that it was removed “because of world events”, but admitted she couldn’t reveal much more. “I think they decided it was for the right reasons,” she told The Independent. “It was a complete accident. I’m never one of these comedians that tries to be topical – it’s just not what I do. It’s completely out of keeping with me."Other reports suggested Trump was not referenced in the episode - but Russian leader Vladimir Putin was apparently alluded to in a scene of graphic violence.Diane Morgan as Mandy Carter BBC/Richard Harrison/PAIt is understood that the BBC wanted to update parts of the episode before it was released. The episode was pushed back and will now be released this Christmas, the BBC has confirmed.The description for the episode, which was filmed in January 2025, reads: “Mandy rarely dabbles in global diplomacy, especially over Christmas when it’s so cold out and there’s good telly on, but when she does, you can bet that she makes a real difference to the balance of power in the world.” Morgan plays the chaotic and jobless Mandy Carter in Mandy, whom the actress previously revealed she based on people she knew growing up in Northern England. The festive special will air this Christmas instead PA WireSpeaking about the inspiration for the obscure situations Mandy finds herself in, Morgan said: “They’re all based on absolute fact. A lot of them are inspired by things that have happened to me.“I’ve had a number of jobs that I’ve been fired from. Some I haven’t even lasted an hour in. Acting’s about the only job I’ve lasted more than a week in. So I have to stick with it.”Read MoreIn the series, Philomena is joined by experts who answer her questions about the progression of society as she tries to uncover humankind’s greatest achievements and discover how humans came to be.