Beloved Call the Midwife character Sister Monica Joan is set to return to screens as the BBC confirms new details of the upcoming prequel series. The hit show's 15th series finale in March saw the character die after stopping her medication, but now she will appear in a younger form.
Prequel Series Details
The three-part Christmas special, titled Call The Midwife: Sisters In Arms, will explore the early days of Nonnatus House during the Second World War and the Blitz. Filming has begun, with celebrity guest stars including Helen Schlesinger and Martin McCann.
Set in 1939, the series will examine the impact of war on the nuns and midwives. Jenny Agutter will narrate as an older Sister Julienne, while Helena Wilson plays her younger counterpart. Judy Parfitt's Sister Monica Joan will be portrayed by Helen Schlesinger, and Amy Booth-Steel will play a young Sister Evangelina.
Creative Team Insights
Showrunner Heidi Thomas described the spin-off as 'a joy to write', adding: 'I found myself longing to turn the clock back and tell the story of their finest hour – the Blitz.' She highlighted themes of love, birth, separation, and courage, set against a medical drama backdrop.
Executive producer Dame Pippa Harris said: 'It’s thrilling to watch Heidi Thomas create a series which I know will delight our loyal Call The Midwife audience, as well as drawing in new viewers.'
