Fans of the beloved BBC period drama Call the Midwife were given a festive treat this year with the return of a familiar face. Actor Max Macmillan reprised his role as Timothy Turner in the 2025 Christmas specials, marking a heartwarming comeback for the character.
Timothy Turner's Journey from Boy to Doctor
Max Macmillan, now 23 years old, first appeared on the show in its very first festive episode back in 2012. He was introduced as the mischievous but kind-hearted son of Dr. Patrick Turner, played by Stephen McGann. Viewers first met Timothy as a young schoolboy waiting in a car while his father attended a medical emergency.
His character grew up on screen, notably as a Boy Scout involved in Nurse Chummy's nativity and showcasing his violin skills. After disappearing from screens during season 14 in 2024, where it was mentioned he was working as a junior doctor in Edinburgh, Timothy made a dramatic return in the 2025 specials set in 1971.
The plot saw him reunite with his Poplar family amid a tense rescue mission in Hong Kong, following a building collapse at the Hong Kong Branch House.
Max Macmillan's Life Away from Nonnatus House
While Call the Midwife launched his career, Max Macmillan comes from a creative family. His mother is the internationally bestselling thriller author Gilly Macmillan. The proud mum has eight published novels, including The Manor House and The Nanny, and has shared her support for her son's acting on social media.
Away from the BBC drama, Max's acting credits include the 2019 film The Song of Names, where he starred alongside Tim Roth and Clive Owen, and the short film The Night to Come.
A Man of Many Talents
Beyond acting, Max Macmillan is a skilled musician. He plays piano on the show and has performed in several real-life concerts. He is also a keen photographer, sharing his work on his Instagram account, @lazydonkey27.
The return of Timothy Turner has set the stage for the new series. Call the Midwife series 15 started on Sunday, 11 January 2026 at 8pm on BBC One and iPlayer.
