The beloved BBC period drama Call the Midwife returned to screens on Sunday night with a poignant and emotional tribute to a cherished friend and colleague. At the close of the first episode of its 15th series, a simple but powerful message appeared on screen: "In memory of Nico Clarkson, a much loved friend and colleague."
A Sudden and Profound Loss
The tribute, which aired on BBC One on January 11, was followed by a memorial post shared on the show's social media channels. It confirmed the sudden passing of Clarkson, whose talent and kindness left a significant mark on those who worked with him.
The statement expressed deep sorrow from family, friends, and fans, noting that his unexpected death "has left a profound void in the lives of all who knew him." It described Clarkson as being known for his engaging personality and his considerable skill within his field.
Series 15 Dives into 1971's Social Landscape
The new series, which marks the show's return, continues to follow the nurses and sisters of Nonnatus House as they navigate a world of rapid social change. Set in 1971, the storyline is poised to tackle a range of complex medical and social issues.
Key themes for the series include:
- The growing Women's Liberation Movement
- Challenging medical cases like premature birth and kidney cancer
- Historical issues such as tuberculosis and slavery
The series opener saw the midwives attending a Women's Liberation meeting, while Sister Catherine faced her first solo delivery. Meanwhile, the Nonnatus team grew increasingly concerned for the welfare of four young children.
A Full Cast Returns Amidst Change
The entire ensemble of fan-favourite characters is back for the new season. This includes Sister Julienne (Jenny Agutter), Sister Monica Joan (Judy Parfitt), Trixie Aylward (Helen George), and Shelagh Turner (Laura Main). They are joined by Fred Buckle, Dr. Turner, Nurse Crane, and the rest of the familiar Poplar residents.
In a recent interview, Jenny Agutter hinted at the ongoing tensions within the show's narrative. She revealed that Nonnatus House faces pressure to modernise, including a request from authorities for the nuns to swap their habits for standard uniforms.
"She, as a nun, is very much aware of the fact that the first service they have is to God, a higher order than the council," Agutter explained of her character's perspective. This conflict symbolises the wider struggle of traditional institutions adapting to a new era within the NHS.
The heartfelt tribute to Nico Clarkson serves as a sombre reminder of the close-knit community behind the production, even as the drama on screen continues to captivate millions. Call the Midwife is available to stream on BBC iPlayer.
