The cherished BBC period drama Call the Midwife continues to captivate audiences with its fifteenth season, introducing a fresh ensemble of guest performers in its third episode. Set against the backdrop of 1971, the series delves into poignant social and medical narratives, including the Women's Liberation Movement, premature birth, and kidney cancer, while maintaining its heartfelt storytelling.
Returning Favourites and New Faces
Familiar characters such as Sister Monica Joan, portrayed by Judy Parfitt, and Trixie Aylward, played by Helen George, reprise their roles, providing continuity and depth to the narrative. Alongside them, a talented array of guest stars joins the cast, enriching the episode's plotlines and emotional resonance.
Key Guest Performers in Episode 3
The episode features several notable actors making their debut or returning to the Call the Midwife universe. Here is a detailed look at the guest cast:
- Doreene Blackstock as Sister Marcus: Best known for her role as Beatrice Effiong in the Netflix series Sex Education, Blackstock brings her extensive television experience from shows like Brassic and Doctors to her portrayal of Sister Marcus.
- Abra Thompson as Eileen Hudson: Thompson, recognised for her performance in Showtrial, takes on the role of Eileen, adding to her diverse credits in series such as The Nevers and Beyond Paradise.
- Bogi Bondor as Agata Balassa: In her first major television role, Bondor appears as Agata, a character seen receiving assistance from nurse Rosalind Clifford, played by Natalie Quarry, in promotional images.
- Cathy Murphy as Moira: A veteran of British soap operas, Murphy, known for her parts in EastEnders and Family Affairs, guest stars as Moira, bringing her expertise from medical dramas like Holby City.
- Margareta Szabo as Vera Kovacs: Szabo, familiar to viewers from EastEnders and Emmerdale, portrays Vera, interacting with her on-screen husband Laszlo Kovacs, played by Aleksandar Mikic.
- Aleksandar Mikic as Laszlo Kovacs: Mikic, with roles in Litvinenko and The Bay, embodies Laszlo, contributing to the episode's dramatic tension and familial dynamics.
Supporting Guest Roles
Additional guest stars enhance the episode's ensemble, including Sarah Parkins as Mrs Yeats, Kate Russell-Smith as the Warden, and Katie Smale as Noreen. These performers add layers to the community-focused storytelling that defines the series.
Episode Highlights and Themes
In this instalment, nurse Rosalind Clifford, played by Natalie Quarry, faces a challenging domestic case, testing her professional skills and compassion. Concurrently, Joyce Highland, portrayed by Renee Bailey, is assigned to the hospital and forms a bond with a single mother who has a rare blood type, highlighting the show's commitment to addressing complex health and social issues.
The guest stars' performances are integral to exploring these themes, providing new perspectives and emotional depth. Their involvement underscores the series' ability to attract top-tier talent while maintaining its authentic, period-specific atmosphere.
Call the Midwife season 15, episode 3, aired on Sunday, January 25, at 8pm on BBC One and BBC iPlayer, continuing its tradition of blending historical accuracy with compelling human stories.
