How Many Call the Midwife Series Are There? A Comprehensive Guide
As of 2024, there are thirteen completed series of Call the Midwife, with a fourteenth series confirmed and expected to air in 2025.
Introduction to Call the Midwife
Call the Midwife has become a global phenomenon, captivating audiences with its heartwarming stories, historical accuracy, and compelling characters. The series, based on the memoirs of Jennifer Worth, offers a glimpse into the lives of midwives in the East End of London during the 1950s and 1960s. The show’s enduring popularity has led to its continuous renewal, raising the question for many viewers: How Many Call the Midwife Series Are There? This article provides a comprehensive overview of the series and everything you need to know about its run so far.
Background: The Origins of a Beloved Series
The series premiered in the United Kingdom on January 15, 2012, and quickly garnered critical acclaim and a devoted following. The BBC drama is produced by Neal Street Productions, a company co-founded by Sam Mendes. Call the Midwife distinguishes itself through its portrayal of social issues, women’s health, and the changing landscape of healthcare in postwar Britain. The show’s success is attributable to its:
- Strong ensemble cast
- Moving storylines based on real-life experiences
- Attention to historical detail
- Exploration of complex social issues
Evolution of the Series: From Nonnatus House to the Future
Over the years, Call the Midwife has undergone several changes, including cast departures and arrivals, new storylines, and shifts in the social landscape depicted. While the core themes of midwifery, community, and compassion remain constant, the series has continually evolved to keep pace with its historical setting. The question of How Many Call the Midwife Series Are There? is only partly about the number, but also about the journey the series has taken.
Series Breakdown by Year and Key Events
The following table details each series of Call the Midwife, highlighting key events and historical periods covered. This helps to illustrate the progression of the show and the eras it has explored.
| Series | Year Aired | Time Period | Key Events & Social Issues |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2012 | 1957 | Introduction of Jenny Lee; poverty and housing shortages. |
| 2 | 2013 | 1958-1959 | Immigration, family planning begins. |
| 3 | 2014 | 1959 | Polio epidemic; thalidomide crisis begins. |
| 4 | 2015 | 1960 | Introduction of new characters; changing social attitudes. |
| 5 | 2016 | 1961 | Contraception; the rise of consumerism. |
| 6 | 2017 | 1962 | Confronting racism; advancements in neonatal care. |
| 7 | 2018 | 1963 | The Great Train Robbery; cervical screening programs. |
| 8 | 2019 | 1964 | Immigration, social welfare, unmarried mothers. |
| 9 | 2020 | 1965 | Rising crime rates, introduction of the oral contraceptive pill. |
| 10 | 2021 | 1966 | World Cup celebrations, advancements in healthcare accessibility. |
| 11 | 2022 | 1967 | Legalization of abortion; advancements in medical technology. |
| 12 | 2023 | 1968 | Changing family structures; social unrest and demonstrations. |
| 13 | 2024 | 1969 | The rise of feminism; the Apollo 11 moon landing. |
The Future: What to Expect from Series 14
The announcement of Series 14 ensures that viewers can look forward to more stories from Nonnatus House. While specific plot details remain under wraps, fans can anticipate further exploration of the late 1960s, with the changing social and political landscape continuing to influence the lives of the midwives and the community they serve. The continuing saga assures viewers there are further chapters to the history, providing an answer to How Many Call the Midwife Series Are There? for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How many Christmas specials of Call the Midwife are there?
There have been thirteen Call the Midwife Christmas specials, airing every year since 2012. These specials have become a beloved tradition for many viewers, offering a festive and heartwarming escape during the holiday season. Each special typically airs on Christmas Day in the UK and shortly thereafter in other countries.
Are Call the Midwife stories based on true events?
Yes, the series is based on the memoirs of Jennifer Worth, who worked as a midwife in the East End of London in the 1950s. While the show takes creative liberties and embellishes some storylines for dramatic effect, the underlying themes and many of the individual cases are rooted in real-life experiences.
Will there be a Call the Midwife series 15?
As of October 2024, a Series 15 has not yet been officially confirmed. However, given the show’s continued popularity and success, it is highly likely that it will be renewed for further seasons. Keep an eye on official announcements from the BBC for confirmation.
Where can I watch Call the Midwife?
In the UK, Call the Midwife airs on BBC One and is available for streaming on BBC iPlayer. In the US, it airs on PBS and is available for streaming on services like Netflix (depending on your region) and BritBox. Availability may vary by country.
Who are the main characters in Call the Midwife?
The main characters have evolved over the years, but have included Jenny Lee (played by Jessica Raine in early series), Sister Julienne (played by Jenny Agutter), Shelagh Turner (formerly Sister Bernadette, played by Laura Main), Trixie Franklin (played by Helen George), and Sister Monica Joan (played by Judy Parfitt).
Is Call the Midwife historically accurate?
The series strives for historical accuracy in its depiction of the 1950s and 1960s. The production team consults with historians and medical professionals to ensure that the costumes, sets, and medical procedures are authentic. However, it is important to remember that it is still a drama, and some aspects are fictionalized for narrative purposes.
What is Nonnatus House?
Nonnatus House is the convent and home base for the midwives in the series. It serves as a place of residence, work, and community for the nuns and midwives who dedicate their lives to caring for the women of Poplar.
What is the significance of the changing times depicted in Call the Midwife?
The series chronicles a period of significant social and medical change in the UK. It explores themes such as the rise of the NHS, advancements in women’s healthcare, changing attitudes towards contraception and family planning, and the challenges faced by marginalized communities.
Why is Call the Midwife so popular?
The series’ popularity is attributed to its compelling storylines, strong characters, historical accuracy, and exploration of universal themes such as love, loss, community, and resilience. It offers a heartwarming and thought-provoking glimpse into a bygone era.
Are the babies in Call the Midwife real?
While some newborns and very young babies are used, most of the babies seen in Call the Midwife are played by dolls for safety and logistical reasons. The dolls are often remarkably lifelike and are used effectively to create a realistic portrayal of childbirth.
What social issues does Call the Midwife address?
Call the Midwife tackles a wide range of social issues, including poverty, inequality, immigration, mental health, disability, and the challenges faced by women in particular. The show’s willingness to address these issues has contributed to its critical acclaim and its relevance to contemporary audiences.
Has the cast of Call the Midwife changed over the years?
Yes, the cast has undergone several changes since the series began. Some original cast members have left, while new characters have been introduced. These changes have allowed the show to explore new storylines and perspectives, while maintaining its core themes and values. Understanding the cast evolution helps answer the question of How Many Call the Midwife Series Are There? and how they’ve impacted the show’s content over the years.