The BBC has announced a three-episode prequel series to Call the Midwife, titled Sisters in Arms, which will air this Christmas. Set during World War II, the drama turns back the clock to 1939, following familiar nuns in their younger years as they support the Poplar community during wartime.
War Era Challenges
Set at a time when there was "no gas and air, no penicillin, no cure for TB, and no welfare state," the series will show how life becomes even harder when war is declared. According to the BBC's synopsis, "while bombs rain from the sky, women give birth underground, families are shattered, children run wild, and whole streets are reduced to rubble." The series promises to show how "courage, compassion and resilience triumph as the community unites in its efforts to survive."
Cast and Production
The cast includes Coronation Street's Julie Hesmondhalgh as Sister Alice and Helena Wilson as a young Sister Julienne. Jenny Agutter will return as narrator, whilst former Call the Midwife star Ami Metcalf takes on the role of Betty Buckle.
Creator Heidi Thomas revealed filming wrapped with emotional scenes, saying: "The evacuation of Poplar's children, and the fear that they may not make it home for Christmas, had us all in tears."
Broadcast Details
Sisters in Arms will air on BBC One and iPlayer this Christmas, though exact broadcast times are yet to be confirmed.
