The cherished BBC period drama Call the Midwife will not return for a Christmas special this year, marking a significant departure from its traditional festive schedule. The show, which follows midwives at Nonnatus House in London's East End, is currently airing its 15th series, set to conclude on March 8. Following this, the programme will enter a hiatus, with no new episodes scheduled for January as is customary.
Creator Heidi Thomas Explains the Decision
Show creator Heidi Thomas has confirmed that Call the Midwife is taking a break after 15 consecutive years of production. In an interview with Radio Times, Thomas revealed the immense workload involved in sustaining the series. "We have made 15 series in 15 years – I've known for a couple of years that that situation won't go on forever," she stated. Thomas highlighted practical challenges, noting that the sets require repair and the nuns' habits are worn out, with each series taking approximately 14 months to produce.
Workload and Production Demands
Thomas elaborated on the demanding production schedule, explaining that for two months each year, she and producer Annie Tricklebank work on two series simultaneously. She described this workload as "immense" and unsustainable in the long term. This break is intended to allow for necessary rest and recalibration before the show's eventual return.
What to Expect During the Hiatus
While Call the Midwife is on pause, audiences will not be left without content. A wartime prequel series is set to debut on Christmas Day, featuring 1940s versions of beloved characters such as Sister Monica Joan, Sister Julienne (played by Jenny Agutter), and the late Sister Evangeline, originally portrayed by Pam Ferris. Additionally, a film project is in development, likely set in Australia in 1972, starring the regular cast members.
Future of the Series
The 16th series of Call the Midwife is confirmed to return in the future, though an exact air date has not been announced. Thomas hinted that the show will come back "slightly recalibrated," with changes that are "nourishing" rather than destructive. She assured fans that while transformations will occur, the core essence of the series will remain intact.
Background and Legacy
Call the Midwife, starring Helen George as Nurse Trixie Franklin, premiered in 2012 and has since aired 15 series spanning the 1950s to the 1970s, along with numerous Christmas specials. The current series, set in 1971, began in January and concludes this month. The show has become a staple of British television, celebrated for its heartfelt storytelling and historical portrayal of midwifery.
This hiatus represents a pivotal moment for the series, allowing for necessary rejuvenation while promising fresh content for loyal viewers. Fans can look forward to the prequel and film as interim offerings until the main series resumes with its 16th instalment.
