Call the Midwife Prequel 'Sisters In Arms' Confirmed for Christmas Broadcast
Fans of the beloved BBC drama Call the Midwife have received exciting news about the show's future, with a prequel series set to air during the upcoming Christmas period. This announcement comes shortly after the emotional conclusion of season fifteen, which featured the poignant death of Sister Monica Joan, leaving viewers deeply moved.
Prequel Details and Setting
The prequel, titled Sisters In Arms, will transport audiences back to the harrowing days of the London Blitz in Poplar, East London. This marks a significant shift from the original series, which began in 1957 and recently progressed to the early 1970s, chronicling the evolution of the National Health Service. Based on the memoirs of nurse and midwife Jennifer Worth, the new episodes will explore the wartime experiences of younger versions of iconic characters, including Sisters Julienne, Monica Joan, and Evangelina, originally played by Jenny Agutter, Judy Parfitt, and Pam Ferris.
Christmas Schedule Changes
In a departure from tradition, show bosses have confirmed that there will be no Christmas special this year. Instead, the three-part mini-series Sisters In Arms will take centre stage during the festive season. Creator and writer Heidi Thomas explained at a recent press event that this is a temporary pause in the usual pattern, allowing the prequel to highlight the early days of Nonnatus House and the resilience of its inhabitants.
Inspiration and Themes
Heidi Thomas revealed that the prequel was born from a desire to delve deeper into the past beyond the 1957-1971 timeframe covered by the main series. She described the Blitz years as extraordinary, filled with loss, togetherness, courage, and joy. The series aims to portray strong women navigating a world where they are not in control, as men are dispatched to war or abroad, emphasizing themes of community and perseverance.
Future Projects and Availability
Beyond the prequel, Call the Midwife is set to expand its reach with a film adaptation, which will be set overseas in 1972. However, a release date for the movie has not yet been announced. For now, fans can catch up on previous episodes, as the show remains available to stream on BBC iPlayer, offering a comprehensive look at its heartfelt storytelling.
