Beloved BBC period drama Call The Midwife is set to make a spectacular return to our screens this festive season with not one, but two brand-new Christmas specials. The heartwarming series, which follows the midwives and nuns of Nonnatus House in London's Poplar, will air on both Christmas Day and Boxing Day, promising an explosive overseas rescue mission for its characters.
A Festive Return For The Hit Series
The upcoming Call The Midwife Christmas special 2025 will transport viewers back to 1971. The plot kicks off with fan favourites Fred and Violet Buckle, played by Cliff Parisi and Annabelle Apsion, leaving East London to spend the holidays in Hong Kong with her son Derek. Their journey sets the stage for a dramatic adventure involving the entire Nonnatus House team. This festive treat follows the show's continued success, with last year's special attracting an audience of almost 9 million viewers.
While the residents of Poplar prepare for their latest chapter, many of the show's original stars have moved on to new and exciting projects. Let's take a look at where some of the most iconic cast members are now.
Where Are The Original Midwives Now?
Miranda Hart, who captured hearts as the beloved Camilla 'Chummy' Cholomondely-Browne, departed the series in 2015. She has since appeared in films like the 2020 adaptation of Emma and the animated feature The Canterville Ghost in 2023. Hart has also shared more of her personal life with fans, revealing her marriage to husband Richard Fairs and her private battle with Lyme disease.
Emerald Fennell, who played Nurse Patsy Mount, left the show when her character travelled to Scotland with partner Delia. Fennell has achieved remarkable success behind the camera, writing and producing the acclaimed series Killing Eve and the Oscar-nominated film Saltburn. She also had a memorable cameo in the 2023 Barbie movie.
The tragic departure of Charlotte Ritchie's character, Barbara Gilbert, from sepsis left fans devastated. Ritchie, however, has flourished, landing major roles in Doctor Who, Netflix's You, and as a lead in the hit BBC sitcom Ghosts.
From Nonnatus House To New Horizons
The show's original lead, Jessica Raine (Jenny Lee), has built a formidable career since leaving after series three. She has starred in top-rated dramas including Line of Duty and the psychological thriller The Devil's Hour.
Pam Ferris brought the formidable Sister Evangelina to life until the character's passing from a stroke. Already famous for playing Miss Trunchbull in Matilda, Ferris later appeared in the 2018 comedy Holmes & Watson.
Bryony Hannah, who portrayed the gentle Cynthia Miller across six series, has continued her acting career in film, with roles in The Last Duel and Firebrand, alongside voice work for children's television.
With the Call The Midwife Christmas special 2025 promising high drama and emotional moments, the legacy of its original cast continues to shine brightly. Fans can look forward to the new episodes while celebrating the incredible journeys of the stars who helped make the show a national treasure.
