The 2 Johnnies came under fire recently for “sexist” comments made on their podcast and in clips used to promote their RTE 2FM radio show.
It had only been announced a number of weeks ago that the pair would be taking over the show before they were swiftly taken off again while the broadcaster “reviewed the matter”.
While the pair haven't commented on their next steps after the controversy, let's take a look at what they've done in the past and what their private lives are like.
Before the 2 Johnnies
The 2 Johnnies is, you guessed it, made up of two men named Johnny.
Johnny McMahon, better known as Johnny Smacks, and Johnny O’Brien, known as Johnny B, joined forces in 2016.
It all began when the pair were asked to MC a fundraiser at Cahir GAA in Tipperary. At the time, Johnny B was working as a hurl maker and was the lead singer in a covers band, while Johnny Smacks was a butcher in Supervalu.
Within six months of joining forces, they quit their jobs to work on the 2 Johnnies full-time.
Career to date
Since then, the pair have created comedy sketches, songs and a podcast that tops the charts on Spotify.
Guests such as Tommy Tiernan, Tadhg Furlong, Eddie Hearn and Roz Purcell among many others have joined them on their podcast, which is released every Monday.
They have even ventured into the world of TV, with ‘The 2 Johnnies Do America’ premiering back in 2020. A second series called ‘The 2 Johnnies Take On’ explored the likes of e-sports and competitive gaming among others.
They have also had nine number-one singles, sold out a live tour of the UK, USA and Australia and sold out a 5,000-capacity arena show in Ireland.
Before they landed their current radio gig, they had previously covered for Jennifer Zamparelli on 2FM.
Private lives
In terms of their private lives, they still live in the town of Cahir, where they are from.
They both keep their family lives and relationships quite private, but last year it was reported that they were both in relationships.
Johnny Smacks is said to be engaged to a woman called Annie, who he’s been dating for years. He previously said: "I remember asking her for like €100 to look after my NCT on my 99 Golf when I was working in SuperValu.
"She's thrilled I'm doing what I'm doing. I'm a much happier person. She's happy out.
"I've known her for years and I think that makes a massive difference.
"Honestly, I'd be sceptical now, if I was to be single, of dating anyone who knew me.
"So I'm lucky in that."
Johnny B also has a girlfriend, who he described as a “lovely lady from Cork”. The couple met online after chatting in direct messages.
He has remained coy about her identity because she is not used to the world of television and social media.
In 2021, the pair attended a GAA game in Pairc Ui Chaoimh as they watched Tipperary take on Waterford in the All-Ireland Senior Hurling Championship.
