Call the Midwife cast

As a long-time fan of Call the Midwife, I must say that I am always in awe of the incredible cast and stories they bring to life each season. However, this Christmas special promises to be particularly special. With guest stars like Conor O’Donnell, Myla Park, and Peter Hannah, it’s clear that the producers have pulled out all the stops for the holiday season.

It’s time for cozying up on the couch, surrounded by your favorite treats, to savor the Christmas special episode of Call the Midwife.

This holiday season, there’s a double treat for you! Instead of just one, there are now two special episodes filled with joy and lasting a full hour each. That adds up to an additional 30 minutes of laughter and camaraderie with the beloved characters from Poplar.

Heidi Thomas, the creator and writer, expressed that there’s hardly anyone who doesn’t enjoy discovering a surprise gift they weren’t expecting, hidden beneath the Christmas tree.

“When I was asked to write a two-part Christmas special for 2024, I couldn’t resist!”

Midwives are “completely engaged in the process of delivering babies, a task they are deeply passionate about,” while Poplar, on the other hand, is hosting a lively carnival, introducing “a splash of color and thrill into the wintery surroundings.

However, we’ll encounter hurdles such as influenza outbreaks like the Hong Kong flu, and let’s not forget a fugitive on the loose.

With the neighborhood getting ready for a carol service, concerns are increasing that he might be lurking around, given the recent string of burglaries in our area.

Elsewhere, “the Turner children are caught up in the fever surrounding the Blue Peter Christmas appeal to collect dinky cars and scrap metal, Trixie makes a fleeting visit to Nonnatus House and is delighted to see her brother Geoffrey, and Miss Higgins has her grandson Harry stay for Christmas”.

Additionally, Violet is quite busy with the mince pie contest she’s hosting, causing a disruption in the Buckles’ plans for Reggie’s return.

A number of familiar faces have returned for the special, plus some brand new guest stars.

Read on for a rundown of the Call the Midwife Christmas special cast.

Helen George plays Trixie Aylward (née Franklin)
Stephen McGann plays Patrick Turner
Laura Main plays Shelagh Turner
Jenny Agutter plays Sister Julienne
Linda Bassett plays Phyllis Crane
Judy Parfitt plays Sister Monica Joan
Megan Cusack plays Nancy Corrigan
Rebecca Gethings plays Sister Veronica
Renee Bailey plays Joyce Highland
Natalie Quarry plays Rosalind Clifford
Georgie Glen plays Miss Higgins
Zephryn Taitte plays Cyril Robinson
Cliff Parisi plays Fred Buckle
Annabelle Apsion plays Violet Buckle
Daniel Laurie plays Reggie Jackson
Christopher Harper plays Geoffrey Franklin
Francesca Fullilove plays Colette Corrigan
Alice Brown plays Angela Turner
April Rae Hoang plays May
Edward Shaw plays Edward ‘Teddy’ Turner
Dame Vanessa Redgrave as the voice of Jennifer Worth

Helen George plays Trixie Franklin

What is Trixie Aylward known for? She is an accomplished and skillful midwife who has gained significant experience over time, making her a valuable member of the team. However, she has struggled with alcohol addiction in the past, which resurfaced during a difficult period in her marriage last season due to financial difficulties.

Towards the close of season 13, Trixie bid farewell to London and moved to New York City to be with her spouse, Matthew, as he pursued a fresh entrepreneurial venture.

Apart from starring in “Call the Midwife,” Helen George has made guest appearances on shows like “Red Dwarf,” “Nativity Rocks!”, “Doctors,” and “Hotel Babylon.” In 2015, she reached the sixth place in “Strictly Come Dancing” with her professional partner Aljaz Skorjanec. Interestingly, Helen met her real-life partner Jack Ashton on the set of “Call the Midwife,” where he played the Reverend Tom until season 7’s end; they have two daughters together named Wren and Lark.

Stephen McGann plays Patrick Turner

Who is Patrick Turner? He’s the local general practitioner who often collaborates with Nonnatus House. His dedication to his profession is unwavering, as he puts in countless hours caring for the residents of Poplar. Dr. Turner shares a life with Shelagh and together they have four children.

Has Stephen McGann appeared in any other productions aside from Emmerdale? Yes, indeed! Stephen McGann is known not only for his role as Sean Reynolds in Emmerdale but also for being married to the creator and writer of Call the Midwife, Heidi Thomas. Furthermore, he is the brother of Doctor Who’s Paul McGann, and like his character Dr Turner, he has a background in science – holding a Master’s degree in Science Communication and having written a book, Flesh and Blood, that delves into the personal and medical history of his family.

Laura Main plays Shelagh Turner

Who is Shelagh Turner? Initially, she was known as Sister Bernadette within the Order. However, she chose to leave the nunhood and marry Dr. Turner. Now, they have four children (both adopted and biological) together. She frequently collaborates with Nonnatus House, often taking on midwifery duties or providing assistance when it’s required.

Has Laura Main appeared in any other productions apart from theatre?

Jenny Agutter plays Sister Julienne

Who is Sister Julienne? She is the esteemed leader at Nonnatus House, a position held with great respect by her team of midwives, who rely on her wisdom and guidance. Mother Mildred holds a higher rank, but within Nonnatus House, it’s Sister Julienne who guides the sisters of the Order.

Beyond her early roles in The Railway Children and East of Sudan, Jenny Agutter has had an illustrious career, earning an Emmy for The Snow Goose (1971) and a BAFTA for Equus (1977). She graced the screen in Logan’s Run, Amy, An American Werewolf in London, among others. However, she left Hollywood in the 1990s and returned to Britain, reprising her role as the mother in a 2000 TV adaptation of The Railway Children. Her recent work includes Sometimes Always Never with Bill Nighy, Queen of the Desert, Captain America: The Winter Soldier, and Avengers Assemble. So, what other productions has Jenny Agutter been associated with?

Linda Bassett plays Phyllis Crane

Phyllis Crane is a dedicated and hardworking senior midwife with a sharp sense of humor. Despite her no-nonsense demeanor, she is deeply committed to ensuring the wellbeing of her patients.

Apart from her BAFTA-nominated role in East Is East and its sequel West Is West, Linda Bassett has also acted in various other productions such as Spies of Warsaw, Lark Rise to Candleford, The Life and Adventures of Nick Nickleby, The Reader, Calendar Girls, Sense & Sensibility, and most recently, Strike: Troubled Blood. What else has she been in? That’s an interesting question!

Judy Parfitt plays Sister Monica Joan

Sister Monica Joan is a character who has been featured on the show Call the Midwife since it first began. She was among the early midwives in Britain to qualify and now, she resides at Nonnatus House although she’s retired due to dementia. Despite her condition, her former colleagues continue to care for her affectionately (and occasionally with frustration). Sister Monica Joan struggles with her deteriorating abilities and confusion, yet seeks to remain useful in some capacity.

What other productions has Judy Parfitt been a part of? Besides her BAFTA-nominated roles as Maria Thins in Girl With A Pearl Earring and Mildred Layton in The Jewel In The Crown, the 84-year-old actress can also be seen in Up the Women, The Game, and Little Dorrit where she played Mrs Clennam.

Megan Cusack plays Nancy Corrigan

In simpler terms, Nancy Corrigan is a cheerful midwife who grew up in an orphanage run by nuns of the Catholic faith. She has a child named Colette, and at one point, she contemplated leaving Nonnatus House to find employment that would provide them with a shared home. However, she ultimately chose to remain there.

Apart from Doctors and the filmed adaptation of Chekhov’s The Cherry Orchard, has Megan Cusack appeared in any other productions?

Rebecca Gethings plays Sister Veronica

Who is Sister Veronica? Sister Veronica is the new health visitor at Nonnatus House, who has recently joined in season 12. Before working there, she was employed in Hong Kong. In Gethings’ words, “She doesn’t always pick up on social cues like others do, but her intentions are good. She tends to blunder and stir up trouble, yet she always does it with a noble purpose.

Has Rebecca Gethings starred in any other productions? Yes, she has been seen in David Brent: Life on the Road and also in the historical drama The Serpent Queen.

Renee Bailey plays Joyce Highland

What is Joyce Highland known as? She’s a midwife who recently joined Nonnatus House, hailing from Trinidad. In her past, Joyce was trapped in an abusive marriage. However, she is characterized by her diligence, intelligence that shines brightly, and immense kindness.

Under what other productions can we find Renee Bailey’s work? Her curriculum vitae lists the BBC/Netflix teenage suspense series, Rebel Cheer Squad, and the BBC musical drama, Mood.

Natalie Quarry plays Rosalind Clifford

As a film enthusiast, I’d put it this way: Among the fresh faces gracing Nonnatus House, Rosalind Clifford stands out. She carries a certain innocence yet is underpinned by a hidden strength. In no time at all, she forges a special connection with Joyce that promises an interesting journey ahead.

As a dedicated movie enthusiast, I’ve been wondering about Natalie Quarry’s other roles. From what I gather, she has made an appearance on the medical drama series, Doctors, and graced our screens in an episode of Donald Glover’s Atlanta as well.

Georgie Glen plays Miss Higgins

“Who is Miss Higgins? She’s the receptionist at Dr. Turner’s clinic. She can be quite strict and bossy, but she’s also very kind. Over the years, she’s formed a close bond with Nurse Phyllis Crane. Last season, Miss Higgins was reconnected with her son whom she gave up for adoption at birth, and she also found out that she has a grandson.

As a film enthusiast, I can’t help but wonder about the diverse roles that Georgie Glen has tackled over the years. From portraying Princess Diana’s grandmother Ruth, Lady Fermoy, in The Crown, to embodying Lady Grenford in Hetty Feather and Pat in Sally4Ever, her talent is undeniable. She’s also graced our screens as Sue in Behind her Eyes, Rose Kennedy in the Oscar-nominated Jackie, and the Abbess in Les Misérables. And let’s not forget her long-standing role as head of history Audrey McFall in Waterloo Road! Truly a versatile actress whose work leaves me captivated every time.

Zephryn Taitte plays Cyril Robinson

Cyril Robinson hails from Guyana and works with the council at present, though he’s pondering other opportunities. It was during season 8 when he met midwife Lucille Anderson while fixing Nurse Crane’s car, and he immediately fell for her. Their relationship progressed gradually before they tied the knot in the 2021 Christmas Special; however, she has since returned to Jamaica. Despite being legally married, their union is more of a bond than an official marriage.

What other roles has Zephryn Taitte taken on? He portrayed Dorian in the TV show Brothers Without a Game, and has also been seen in The Hour and Doctors. On stage, his performances include Nora: A Doll’s House, Trust, and The Tempest.

Cliff Parisi plays Fred Buckle

What is the background of Fred Buckle? He was formerly a handyman, but now operates a shop. Married to Violet, they share parenting responsibilities for their son Reggie who has Down’s Syndrome. Midwives often rely on him for assistance in any situation. Additionally, Fred is known as the local Father Christmas of Poplar.

Annabelle Apsion plays Violet Buckle

In the world of television shows I adore, there’s a character named Violet Buckle. She stepped into matrimony with Fred in season 4, and later on, Reggie joined their family fold in season 6. As a dressmaker running her own shop, she’s not just a seamstress but also an integral part of our local community. She organizes events, festivals, and is always lending a helping hand. Recently, she decided to take things up a notch by becoming a councillor, which means she faces fresh challenges every day.

Has Annabelle Apsion acted in any other roles? She played Monica Gallagher on Shameless, Joy Wilton in Soldier Soldier, Betty Calloway during Christmas 2018 on Torvill & Dean, The Village, Holby City, The Halcyon, Father Brown, and more recently Doc Martin.

Daniel Laurie plays Reggie Jackson

In the captivating world of Call the Midwife, I’m Reggie – a cherished character who graced our screens in season 6. My life took an unexpected turn when I lost my mother, leaving me all alone. But fear not, for the kind-hearted nuns and community rallied to provide support and care for me. Born with Down’s Syndrome, I now call Fred and Violet Buckle my guardians; we share a bond filled with love and warmth as a loving and affectionate family.

Has Daniel Laurie appeared in any other productions lately? He’s recently been seen as Sheemie in The Dark Tower, Adam Beecher in Vera, and Zach in Finding Alice (alongside Keeley Hawes). Previously, he portrayed Jamie in the TV series Stella back in 2016. Two years before that, he was the lead actor in the Radio 4 adaptation of Charles Dickens’ Barnaby Rudge.

Christopher Harper plays Geoffrey Franklin

Who, you might ask, is Geoffrey Franklin? That would be Trixie’s charismatic older sibling, known for his passion for immersing himself wholeheartedly in grand endeavors.

As a cinephile, I can’t help but ponder about the diverse roles Christopher Harper has essayed beyond his iconic portrayal of Nathan Curtis in “Coronation Street.” This character, a sinister figure using a tanning salon as a façade for his heinous sex trafficking operations, left an indelible mark on the small screen. Yet, Harper’s repertoire extends beyond this landmark role. He’s popped up briefly in “Holby City” and “Doctors,” showcasing his acting versatility by portraying various characters in each series.

Francesca Fullilove plays Colette Corrigan

Who is known as Colette Corrigan? She is the daughter of Nancy, and she grew up in a Catholic orphanage. Initially, the nuns there led her to believe that Nancy was her sibling.

What else has Francesca Fullilove been in? Call the Midwife is her first on-screen role.

Alice Brown plays Angela Turner

Angela Turner is the daughter of Patrick and Shelagh Turner. She joined their family through adoption at the start of season 4, which made Timothy Turner her older brother. Since then, they’ve welcomed a younger brother and an additional adopted sister into their growing family.

Has Alice Brown appeared in anything else besides Little Angela Turner? It seems that Alice Brown, who’s been playing the role of Little Angela Turner since she was just eight months old, hasn’t ventured into any other acting roles. Her dad shared with TopMob how she landed the part: “My wife Annabel knew someone on the production team, and Alice happened to arrive just as they were developing the storyline.” He further mentioned that he had no intention of pursuing child acting for Alice beyond this role. He plans to reminisce by rewatching episodes with her when she grows older and perhaps use it as ammunition for embarrassment on her wedding day. Additionally, she’s been able to save quite a bit of money from the role, which will come in handy in the future.

April Rae Hoang plays May

Who is May? May Tang, introduced in the 2018 Christmas special, arrived at Nonnatus House as a Chinese child refugee along with a group of others. Mother Mildred carried her. Patrick and Shelagh Turner fostered her initially but eventually adopted her. In season 9, there was an unexpected twist when May’s biological mother resurfaced and refused to relinquish her parental rights. May shares a close bond with her sister Angela, who is around the same age as she is.

What else has April Rae Hoang been in? Call the Midwife is her first on-screen appearance.

Does Olly Rix appear in the Christmas special?

This year’s Call the Midwife Christmas special does not feature Olly Rix from The Spanish Princess or Of Kings and Prophets.

Towards the close of season 13, Matthew Aylward bid farewell to Poplar and ventured off to New York in pursuit of a fresh entrepreneurial endeavor, as he had relinquished management of his father’s business due to accumulating debts.

At first, Trixie stayed in London, but as the miles between them took a toll on her emotional well-being, she eventually chose to move there to be with him.

Who is the Call the Midwife narrator?

Dame Vanessa Redgrave serves as the voice of Jennifer Worth.

Who is Jennifer Worth? She was the main character portrayed by Jessica Raine during the first three seasons of Call the Midwife, depicting a younger version of the midwife. After departing from the show following her marriage to Phillip Worth, she has continued to be associated with the characters at Nonnatus House and provides narration for the series as an older woman.

You might be curious to learn about more movies that Dame Vanessa Redgrave has graced with her presence. This esteemed actress, who boasts an impressive collection of awards such as the Academy Award, BAFTA, Golden Globes, Screen Actors Guild Awards, and a Tony Award, can be seen in films like Behind the Mask, Julia, Isadora, Mary Queen of Scots, A Man for All Seasons, Camelot, Mission: Impossible, Atonement, Coriolanus, and The Butler.

Archie O’Callaghan plays Matthew’s son Jonty.

Call the Midwife Chistmas special guest stars

Conor O’Donnell (Blue Lights) plays Roger Noble – a pharmaceutical salesman who asks Nancy out on a date.
Myla Park plays Karen Shaughnessy – Karen and her family are evicted form their home just before Christmas.
Peter Hannah (Six Four) plays Pete Shaughnessy – Karen’s father. He catches Hong Kong flu.
Madelyn Smedley (The Traitors) plays Dilys Shaughnessy – Karen’s pregnant mother. She’s doing her best to hold it together for her husband and children.
Kirsty Rider (Space Pirates) plays Alma Curran – she gives birth in the Christmas special, but her baby starts to show signs of ill health
Kurtis Thompson (Hayfields) plays Sid Curran – Alma’s partner and the father of her baby.
Ariya Amin plays Afira Ali – a woman who falls ill after giving birth.
Leesa Gazi plays Mrs Bibi – Afira’s mother.
John Kazek (Shetland) plays Jock McKechnie and Simon Meacock (The Killing Kind) plays Stanley Borrows – two escaped convicts.
Eisa Latif plays Harry Chopra – Miss Higgins’s grandson.
Timothy Harker (Black Doves) plays Dr Threapwood – a member of the board of health.
Anya Sayadian (Ted Lasso) plays Mary – she makes an important discovery while out walking with her daughter.

Part 1 of the Call the Midwife Christmas special will air at 8pm on Christmas Day on BBC One and BBC iPlayer. Part 2 arrives on Boxing Day at 7:30pm.

2024-12-25 20:36