Fans of the beloved BBC period drama Call the Midwife are in for a double dose of festive drama this year, with the confirmation that a familiar face is returning to Nonnatus House. The show will air two special episodes over the Christmas period, promising emotional storylines and a poignant family reunion.
Festive Drama and a Rescue Mission to Hong Kong
The Christmas Day and Boxing Day specials, set in 1971, will see the narrative take an international turn. The action begins with Fred and Violet Buckle departing Poplar in East London to spend Christmas in Hong Kong with her son, Derek. However, their holiday plans are shattered by tragic news: the local branch house has collapsed, resulting in multiple fatalities.
A rescue mission is swiftly organised from Nonnatus House. Dr Turner and Shelagh join the team with a personal motive: to find Esther Tang, the biological mother of their adopted daughter, May, from whom they have heard nothing for over a year.
A Beloved Brother Returns to Poplar
While part of the team heads to Hong Kong, back in Poplar, Nurse Trixie Franklin will experience a joyful personal reunion. The BBC has released sneak peek photos confirming the return of her brother, Geoffrey Franklin, played by actor Christopher Harper.
Geoffrey first appeared in series 12 for Trixie's wedding to Matthew Aylward and has made several subsequent appearances, most notably offering support during Trixie's marital struggles. He was last seen towards the end of series 14, which aired earlier this year. The new images show Geoffrey, sporting a 1970s hairstyle, taking tea with the nuns and nurses and standing beside his sister, though the exact reason for his festive visit remains under wraps.
From Corrie Villain to Midwife Mainstay
For many viewers, actor Christopher Harper is best known for his chilling role as Nathan Curtis in Coronation Street. In 2016-2017, he portrayed the villain who groomed and raped Bethany Platt. His character was jailed but returned to the soap in 2024, leading to a brutal attack by Gary Windass that forced him out of Weatherfield.
Harper's extensive television career also includes roles in Doctors, Holby City, Endeavour, and The Bill. His return as the supportive Geoffrey Franklin provides a stark and welcome contrast to his infamous Corrie persona.
The Call the Midwife Christmas specials promise a blend of high-stakes drama and heartfelt family moments, set against the backdrop of the early 1970s. Audiences can catch all the action when the episodes air on BBC One and iPlayer on Christmas Day.
