The BBC has confirmed a major new chapter for one of its most beloved dramas, announcing that a prequel to Call the Midwife will launch on Christmas Day 2026. In a bold scheduling move, the new show will take over the coveted festive slot traditionally held by the main series.
A Journey Back to 1939
The brand-new series, which does not yet have an official title, will transport viewers back to 1939, nearly two decades before the events of the original series which began in 1957. It will feature younger versions of iconic characters including Sister Julienne, Sister Evangelina, and Sister Monica Joan, played by a fresh cast.
Writer and creator Heidi Thomas explained the inspiration, stating she felt a desire to delve deeper into the past after years of storytelling. "Having wept, laughed, and raged my way from 1957 to 1971, I found myself yearning to delve into the deeper past," she said. The prequel represents a "temporary pause in the usual pattern" for the show after 15 consecutive years.
Future Plans: A Film and Series 16
Fans need not worry about the future of the present-day narrative. Heidi Thomas stressed that Series 16, picking up the story in 1973, is definitely planned for broadcast in due course. "We're not going anywhere," she assured, "Except for maybe Australia."
This hints at a major upcoming project: a feature-length Call the Midwife film set for cinematic release. The movie, likely to be filmed in Australia at the end of next year, would be set in 1972 and feature the show's regular cast on a missionary trip. Actress Helen George, who plays Trixie, expressed enthusiasm for the cinematic shift, noting the potential for stunning visuals and deeper character exploration.
Embracing Change in Poplar
Before the prequel arrives, audiences will see the current series tackle the social upheaval of the early 1970s. The upcoming 15th series, starting on January 11th, is set in 1971 and sees the Nonnatus House team engaging with the women's liberation movement.
In one notable scene, characters are shown participating in a bra-burning protest. Actress Linda Bassett (Nurse Phyllis Crane) shared her own experiences from the era, recalling women's groups focused on bodily autonomy. "It was all about being free and feeling at one with your body and not being ashamed," she said.
Annabelle Apsion, who plays Violet Buckle, noted the emotional resonance of filming such scenes for crew members who lived through that time, highlighting how the show continues to connect past social struggles with modern audiences.
The decision to expand the Call the Midwife universe with a prequel, while pausing the main series, is seen as a creative refresh. As Helen George summarised, "It's right to change the format - we all need a new lease of life." The BBC's confidence in placing this untested prequel in the prestigious Christmas Day slot underscores the enduring power and affection for the world of Nonnatus House.
