The beloved BBC period drama Call the Midwife returned to screens this weekend, but its season premiere was marked by a moment of profound sadness. At the close of Sunday night's episode (January 11), the show paused to pay a heartfelt tribute to a cherished friend and colleague, Nico Clarkson, who has died.
A Poignant On-Screen Memorial
As the credits rolled on the gripping series opener, a simple but powerful message appeared on screen: "In memory of Nico Clarkson, a much loved friend and colleague." This touching gesture was followed by a memorial shared on the show's social media channels, expressing the deep sorrow felt by his family, friends, and fans.
The tribute described Clarkson as being known for his talent, kindness, and engaging personality. It stated that his sudden and unexpected passing has left a profound void in the lives of all who knew him.
A New Series in a Changing World
The emotional tribute came at the start of the show's highly anticipated 15th series, which has returned to BBC One. The new season continues to follow the nurses and sisters of Nonnatus House, now navigating the landscape of 1971. This historical setting allows the drama to delve into pivotal issues like the Women's Liberation Movement and the evolving National Health Service.
The opening episode set the stage for a series tackling complex medical and social themes, including:
- Premature birth and placenta previa
- Kidney cancer and tuberculosis
- The legacy of slavery
Plotlines saw the Nonnatus team growing concerned for the welfare of four young children, while Sister Catherine (Molly Vevers) faced her first solo delivery. The midwives also attended a Women's Liberation meeting, highlighting the era's shifting social dynamics.
The Beloved Cast Returns Amidst Challenges
The full ensemble of fan-favourite characters is back for the new series. This includes Sister Monica Joan (Judy Parfitt), Sister Julienne (Jenny Agutter), Trixie Aylward (Helen George), and Dr. Turner (Stephen McGann), among many others.
In interviews ahead of the series return, Jenny Agutter shed light on the central conflict facing Nonnatus House. She revealed that the nuns are under pressure from the local council and the NHS to modernise, including a request to swap their traditional 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, Sister Julienne. "The habit is very much to do with showing that they are a part of serving the community... it's a matter of knowing what one's role is."
This struggle symbolises a larger threat to the very existence of Nonnatus House and its unique, community-focused services in Poplar.
Call the Midwife continues on BBC One and is available to stream on BBC iPlayer.
