Call the Midwife Star Helen George Reflects on Emotional Series Finale
Helen George, the actress renowned for her role as Trixie Franklin in the beloved BBC period drama Call the Midwife, has openly shared with fans that the show "won't be the same" following the conclusion of its fifteenth series. Having portrayed the character since the drama's debut in 2012, George, now 41, expressed these sentiments ahead of the much-anticipated finale airing on Sunday evening. The series is set to enter a hiatus until 2027, marking a significant pause for the long-running programme.
Cast Members Voice Emotional Impact of Hiatus
In a recent interview, Helen George elaborated on the emotional toll the break will take on the cast, particularly come April, which is traditionally when filming resumes. "We've all been saying that we'll feel it most in April because that's when we usually start filming," she explained. "So when that comes around and we don't, we won't have the support network and community that work has given us. Apart from that first year, we've always known at the end of filming that we'd see each other again."
Laura Main, who plays nurse Shelagh Turner, echoed these feelings, noting that this hiatus represents the first time in over a decade that the cast is not anticipating a spring reunion. "We've had rare and lovely stability for 15 years. We've never had to be upset at the end before," Main stated, highlighting the unique bond and continuity the show has provided its actors.
Changes Ahead for Nonnatus House
During a joint discussion with Radio Times, Helen George added, "And it is just a pause because we know it's coming back. But it won't be the same, with different characters leaving and whatever." This comment hints at potential cast changes upon the show's return, adding to the sense of transition. Notably, viewers are already aware that Judy Parfitt's cherished character, Sister Monica Joan, is grappling with kidney failure, with strong indications that her storyline may conclude in the current series finale.
Creator Heidi Thomas has subtly foreshadowed this development, with one source revealing, "Heidi is wrapping up an era and this series will end with a birth, a wedding and a funeral. After 15 years of writing for Sister Monica Joan, the viewers can trust Heidi to give this iconic character a fitting send off."
What to Expect During the Hiatus
While Call the Midwife takes its break, fans will not be left entirely without content. The hiatus will be filled with a wartime prequel series, set to debut on Christmas Day, featuring 1940s versions of characters like Sister Monica Joan, Sister Julienne (played by Jenny Agutter), and the late Sister Evangeline (formerly portrayed by Pam Ferris). Following this, a movie with the regular cast, set in 1972 Australia, is also planned, offering a temporary diversion for devoted viewers.
Over its 15-year run, the show has boasted a stellar lineup of British talent, including Pam Ferris, Miranda Hart, and Emerald Fennell, contributing to its enduring appeal. As the cast prepares for this unprecedented pause, the emotional resonance of their shared experiences underscores the show's impact, both on-screen and off.
