The beloved BBC period drama Call the Midwife returned with a festive special on Christmas Day 2025, delivering an explosive plot and a significant update on the marriage of one of its most iconic characters, Nurse Trixie Aylward.
A Festive Departure and a Tragic Turn
Set in 1971, the special episode saw familiar faces Fred and Violet Buckle, played by Cliff Parisi and Annabelle Apsion, leave Poplar in East London to spend Christmas in Hong Kong with Violet's son, Derek. However, their holiday took a devastating turn when they discovered the Hong Kong Branch House had collapsed, resulting in multiple fatalities.
This tragedy prompted a swift rescue mission, with a team from Nonnatus House making emergency plans to travel to Hong Kong to offer assistance. Back in Poplar, Nurse Trixie Aylward, portrayed by Helen George, remained behind. She stepped into the role of 'Sister' to provide crucial medical support for the understaffed midwives and Doctor Turner's practice.
Trixie's Major Marriage Revelation
Before the disaster unfolded, viewers saw Trixie enjoying dinner at Nonnatus House with the team and her brother, Geoffrey Franklin. It was here that she addressed the state of her marriage to Matthew Aylward, played by Olly Rix, who continues to live in America.
When Phyllis Crane remarked it was good she was "moving back to London," Trixie was quick to clarify the situation. "Matthew has to stay in New York until the autumn," she stated, firmly reassuring Nurse Crane that they are still married. She added that her stepson, Jonty, is starting pre-prep at Easter, so she needed to get him "home and settled."
Trixie then confirmed her intention to seek her old job back, asking Sister Julienne if she would be needed for midwifery duties. This confirms her permanent move back to London, leaving Matthew across the Atlantic.
The Breakdown of an American Dream
This update marks a stark turn for the couple, who finally wed at the close of season 12. Their marital bliss was short-lived, plagued by financial woes stemming from Matthew's poor business decisions. These struggles led him to suggest Trixie abandon her career to become a full-time wife and mother.
Later, in series 13, Matthew departed for New York after a school friend offered him a business opportunity to recover his fortune. Although hurt, Trixie eventually agreed to join him, despite assurances the move was temporary. During series 14, which aired earlier in 2025, Trixie had already returned to London to help Sister Julienne confront the Board of Health.
The Christmas special solidifies Trixie's future in Poplar, though it remains unknown if Matthew will appear in season 15, which is set to air in January. For now, Nurse Trixie Aylward is facing the festive season alone in London, her American dream seemingly over.
Call the Midwife is available to stream on BBC iPlayer.
