The beloved period drama Call the Midwife makes its highly anticipated return to BBC One this weekend, launching its fifteenth series with a stellar line-up of new guest stars. The first episode of the new series airs on Sunday 11 January at 8pm, promising eight new hour-long episodes filled with the show's signature heart and grit.
A Darker Turn and New Faces
Actress Jenny Agutter, who plays the stalwart Sister Julienne, has hinted that the forthcoming series will explore darker themes compared to previous seasons. The new storylines are set to tackle a range of complex issues including the Women's Liberation Movement, premature birth, and kidney cancer.
While all the familiar favourites from Nonnatus House are back, the premiere episode introduces several compelling new characters played by a talented roster of actors.
Meet the Series 15 Guest Stars
Izzy Meikle-Small joins the cast as Thelma Cutler. Viewers may recognise the 29-year-old actress from her role as Rachel Hunter in Outlander, or from the Hollywood film Snow White and the Huntsman. In a first-look image, her character is seen pregnant in bed, being cared for by Sister Catherine.
In a notable casting coup, Turlough Convery appears as Ian Kingsley. Convery is best known for playing Bear in the hit series Killing Eve. His character is pictured in a tense confrontation with Nurse Crane, alongside a character named Edna, played by Larner Wallace-Taylor.
Sophie Reid takes on the role of Maxine Drummond, who is seen attending a Women's Liberation meeting with Rosalind Clifford. Reid has previously appeared in Beauty and the Beast and Game of Thrones.
Comedy influencer and actress Carla Freeman plays Bernice, seen holding a baby in conversation with Sister Catherine. Gordon Millar portrays Kevin Cutler, appearing alongside Thelma. Millar has an impressive theatre background, having played Scorpius Malfoy in Harry Potter & The Cursed Child.
What to Expect in Episode One
The synopsis for the series opener reveals that the Nonnatus House team will become deeply concerned for the welfare of four young children. Meanwhile, Sister Catherine faces her first solo delivery, and the midwives engage with the burgeoning Women's Liberation Movement.
Other confirmed guest stars for the first episode include Jenna Augen as Rebecca, Omar Austin as Stevenson Drummond, Nicholas Tizzard as Dr Ashton, and Oliver Rednall as PC Hayward.
With its blend of cherished characters, powerful social commentary, and exciting new talent, Series 15 of Call the Midwife is poised to captivate its audience once again, beginning this Sunday on BBC One.
