Call The Midwife Prequel Series Gets Major Update After Axe Rumours
A highly anticipated Call The Midwife prequel series is officially set to grace television screens later this year, with creator Heidi Thomas unveiling significant new details about the project. This announcement comes amidst swirling rumours that the beloved BBC period drama might be facing cancellation, claims which the broadcaster has firmly and repeatedly denied.
BBC Reassures Fans of Show's Long-Term Future
The BBC has moved to quash speculation about the end of Call The Midwife, which first aired in 2012 and is currently in its fifteenth season. In a clear statement of intent, the corporation confirmed an ambitious slate of upcoming content designed to keep the franchise at the heart of its schedule for years to come.
The broadcaster previously stated: "The BBC would like to reassure fans that Call The Midwife will remain at the heart of the BBC for years to come. As previously announced, there are two Christmas specials, a new series, a film and prequel series, before a sixteenth series in due course. Call the Midwife isn’t going anywhere."
Creator Heidi Thomas Unveils Prequel Details
Heidi Thomas, the mastermind behind the series, has now shared exciting specifics about the prequel spin-off. She confirmed that the new series will feature younger versions of two iconic characters from the original show: Sisters Julienne and Evangelina. These roles are famously played by Jenny Agutter and Pam Ferris in the main series.
Furthermore, Thomas revealed that the narrative will centre on "three young midwives, all completely new, relatively new to the East End." She teased their challenging introduction, noting, "They really do get thrown in at the deep end."
A Focus on Strong Women in Wartime
In an interview with Radio Times, Thomas elaborated on the prequel's themes, emphasising it will focus on "strong women above all else." Set against the backdrop of World War II, the story explores how these women are forced to adapt in a society where they are not in charge, as men are called away to war or overseas postings.
"Everything changes and nothing changes," Thomas remarked, acknowledging the deliberate narrative links to the current, long-running series. This wartime setting will mark the first time viewers have seen Sister Evangelina's character since her death in season five due to complications following a stroke.
Additional Character Insights and Future Projects
Thomas also offered a playful insight into Sister Monica Joan's age in the prequel, stating, "[She] actually isn't that young when we did the maths, but she's very much in her prime."
The BBC had previously confirmed that this Poplar-based prequel series would debut in 2026. Alongside it, plans include a cinema-release film set overseas in 1972, featuring characters from the existing TV show. Thomas described this film as a chance for the regulars to "take a short break from Poplar and test themselves in an unfamiliar landscape," following changes in the NHS and the rise of hospital births.
Reflecting on the prequel, Thomas shared her emotional connection to the project: "The opening of new doors at Nonnatus House feels profoundly emotional, and yet just right... The Blitz years in the East End were extraordinary - filled with loss, togetherness, courage and joy. The bombs fell, the babies kept on coming, and the Sisters kept on going."
Call The Midwife continues to air on Sundays at 8pm on BBC One and iPlayer.
