Call the Midwife actress Helen George has warned that feminism and women's rights are facing their biggest-ever threat, citing the rise of nationalism, Nigel Farage and Andrew Tate. The 41-year-old, who plays midwife Trixie Aylward in the BBC drama, said she finds the strengthening of the patriarchy 'really terrifying'.
Speaking about the new series, which sees the nurses of Nonnatus House become involved with the Women's Liberation movement and burn their bras, George expressed concern that an 'anti-feminist mood' is growing in Britain. She pointed to the display of St George's flags, support for Reform UK leader Farage and the popularity of self-proclaimed misogynist Andrew Tate as evidence of this trend.
The actress said she fears the country could end up like the fictional world of The Handmaid's Tale, where women are stripped of their rights. 'I feel like we could turn around in a few years time and it's The Handmaid's Tale,' she said. 'The anti abortion laws and things. I feel like they will probably be debated in Parliament, especially if Nigel Farage has his way.'
George also highlighted the ongoing controversy around abortion, which was legalised in the UK in 1967. She noted that it is now illegal in some American states, warning that this leads to backstreet abortions and deaths. 'There's always going to be a case for abortion. But the trouble is, if you don't allow it, it's going to do more harm, right? People will die.'
The new series of Call the Midwife returns on Sunday 11 January, but will be the last for a while as the show takes a break. A prequel series set during the Blitz is planned, and a film version is scheduled for 2026. George said the pause will allow the team to 'reset things' and bring 'fresh breath of air' to the long-running show.
