Helen George Shares Candid Thoughts as Call the Midwife Nears Its Finale
Helen George, the beloved star of Call the Midwife, has made a heartfelt admission as the current series approaches its conclusion. The actress, who has portrayed Nurse Trixie Aylward since 2012, revealed why the BBC period drama continues to captivate audiences with its raw and honest depiction of life.
The Emotional Farewell to Poplar
The final episode of series 15 is set to air this Sunday, March 8, marking a temporary pause for the show. This break will allow for the production of a Second World War spin-off prequel and a film, as confirmed by writer Heidi Thomas. Helen George expressed that while the series will return, it "won't be the same" due to character changes and evolving storylines.
In an interview with Radio Times, Helen elaborated on the show's appeal, stating: "It's ugly and it's dirty and it's painful and it's hard - it's f***ing hard - and all that is shown on Call the Midwife. Not grotesquely glamorised and not sensationalised. Just truthfully." This candid reflection underscores the program's commitment to portraying the gritty realities of life in London's East End during the 1950s to early 1970s.
Future Plans and Series Evolution
Writer Heidi Thomas has outlined the upcoming projects, including a film set in 1972 or 1973 featuring most of the current cast. She emphasized that this is not the end of the classic format but a strategic hiatus. Series 16 is expected to introduce a slightly different setting, potentially moving to a small community hospital or GP practice, reflecting changes in the NHS.
The synopsis for the series 15 finale teases several key plot points:
- Sister Veronica grappling with her future outside the convent.
- The closure of the Maternity Home, with Dr. Turner striving to preserve resources.
- The Mullucks advocating for Thalidomide victims.
- Cyril and Rosalind's wedding preparations.
Additionally, a released photo of Sister Monica Joan has sparked speculation among fans about her fate, adding to the suspense of the upcoming episode.
Why Call the Midwife Resonates with Viewers
Helen George believes the show's popularity stems from its ability to mirror the complexities of real life. By avoiding glamorisation and sensationalism, Call the Midwife offers a genuine portrayal of hardship, joy, and resilience that viewers find relatable. This authenticity has cemented its status as a fan favourite over the years.
As the series takes a break, fans can look forward to new iterations while cherishing the memories of the current cast and storylines. Call the Midwife continues to air on BBC One and iPlayer, leaving a lasting impact on its audience.
