In a poignant turn of events for the cherished BBC One drama, Call the Midwife is orchestrating the emotional return of fan favourite characters as Sister Monica Joan's health takes a severe downward spiral. The much-loved nun, portrayed by Judy Parfitt, has been grappling with a rapid decline following a recent medical diagnosis that has left the residents of Nonnatus House deeply concerned.
Sister Monica Joan's Grave Health Diagnosis
During recent episodes, Sister Monica Joan's alarming symptoms of exhaustion and loss of appetite culminated in a devastating revelation from Doctor Patrick Turner, played by Stephen McGann. The GP confirmed that the nun is suffering from chronic kidney disease, delivering the grim prognosis that without immediate treatment acceptance, she will progress swiftly to end-stage renal failure.
Doctor Turner's sobering assessment highlighted the rapid nature of her deterioration, casting a shadow over Nonnatus House. Historically, Sister Monica Joan has demonstrated remarkable resilience, bouncing back from numerous health challenges with what seemed like miraculous recoveries. However, this time her own words, "Maybe I do not care to go on for a long time," suggest a troubling resignation that may signal a different outcome.
The Mullucks Family Makes Their Comeback
In forthcoming scenes scheduled to air during episode eight on Sunday, 8 March, viewers will witness the emotional return of Bernie Mullucks, portrayed by Christopher Reilly. The Mullucks family first appeared during the drama's fifth series, becoming integral to the powerful Thalidomide storyline that continued into series six.
Who Are the Mullucks Family?
The Mullucks family's journey began in 2016 when Rhoda Mullucks, played by Liz White, gave birth to daughter Susan. The newborn arrived with severe birth defects after Rhoda took medication prescribed by Doctor Turner, resulting in Susan being born without properly developed arms and legs. The initial shock gave way to determination as Rhoda and partner Bernie dedicated themselves to becoming the best possible parents.
The series revisited the Thalidomide scandal in series six, catching up with the family eighteen months after Susan's birth. Doctor Turner helped fit the child with prosthetic limbs before her nursery school enrolment, while Bernie struggled profoundly with his daughter's condition, even walking out of a meeting as tears overwhelmed him.
Bernie's emotional journey has been particularly transformative, evolving from initially calling his child a "monster" to becoming fiercely protective, terrified she might face ridicule. The family returned in 2022 as Rhoda and Bernie welcomed another baby, with the storyline exploring the parents' mental health challenges alongside their growing family.
Emotional Reunions and Uncertain Futures
Advance glimpses from the upcoming episode reveal Bernie sitting beside his wife Rhoda as she lies in a hospital bed, the couple holding hands while appearing dishevelled, though the reason for Rhoda's hospital admission remains unclear. In another poignant scene, Bernie pushes a frail Sister Monica Joan through Poplar's streets in a wheelchair, carrying a bouquet of white flowers.
The two are also shown visiting a church together, though what brings them back into each other's lives remains a mystery. The BBC has released additional imagery showing Sister Monica Joan lying in bed with eyes closed and hands by her side, prompting speculation about whether this might signal the end for the adored sister.
As Call the Midwife continues to weave together these emotional narratives, viewers are left wondering what lies ahead for both Sister Monica Joan and the returning Mullucks family. The drama airs Sundays at 8pm on BBC One and iPlayer, promising more heartfelt moments and difficult decisions in the episodes to come.
