How Many More Series of Call the Midwife Are There?
Call the Midwife fans rejoice! Currently, we know there are at least three more series of this beloved show guaranteed to air, taking us through Series 16 in 2027.
A Decade of Deliveries: The Enduring Appeal of Call the Midwife
Call the Midwife, the critically acclaimed BBC drama, has captivated audiences worldwide with its heartwarming stories of birth, life, and community in post-war London. Based on the memoirs of midwife Jennifer Worth, the show has become a cultural phenomenon, consistently drawing high ratings and sparking important conversations about women’s health, social issues, and the evolution of medical practices. Its success lies not only in its historical setting and compelling characters, but also in its ability to explore universal human experiences with sensitivity and nuance. After more than a decade on air, the question on everyone’s mind is: How Many More Series of Call the Midwife Are There?
Renewed for the Future: A Vote of Confidence
The good news for fans is that the BBC has officially renewed Call the Midwife not just once, but multiple times, securing its future for the foreseeable future. This commitment demonstrates the BBC’s confidence in the show’s continued popularity and its dedication to providing quality drama programming. Each renewal provides a new wave of stories, expanding the characters’ journeys and offering fresh perspectives on the challenges and triumphs of life in Poplar.
Series 14, 15, and 16: What We Know So Far
Currently, Call the Midwife is confirmed through Series 16, which will air in 2027. While specific plot details for these future series are scarce, we can expect to see the show continue to explore evolving medical practices, shifting social landscapes, and the personal lives of our favorite midwives and nuns. The late 1960s will continue to shape the world of Nonnatus House and the lives of those it serves.
Beyond Series 16: The Future is Unwritten
While Series 16 marks the current end of the confirmed run, the long-term future of Call the Midwife beyond 2027 remains uncertain. The show’s creator and writer, Heidi Thomas, has expressed her enthusiasm for continuing the story, but any further renewals will depend on various factors, including audience reception, cast availability, and the ongoing commitment of the production team. Fans remain hopeful that the series will continue to deliver compelling stories for many years to come.
Factors Influencing the Show’s Future
Several factors contribute to the decision of whether to continue a successful show like Call the Midwife:
- Ratings Performance: Consistent viewership is a key indicator of the show’s popularity and its ability to attract advertisers (for international broadcasts).
- Critical Acclaim: Positive reviews and awards recognition can enhance the show’s prestige and influence decision-makers.
- Cast Availability: Securing the commitment of key cast members is crucial for maintaining the show’s integrity and continuity.
- Creator’s Vision: Heidi Thomas’s vision for the future of the series and her willingness to continue writing new stories play a significant role.
- Budgetary Considerations: The cost of producing a period drama with a large ensemble cast can influence the BBC’s decision-making process.
Remaining Consistent with Jennifer Worth’s Writings
The series has loosely followed Jennifer Worth’s three memoirs, but it has also expanded significantly beyond them. While the initial seasons adhered more closely to the books, the show has since developed its own storylines and characters. Any future series will likely continue to draw inspiration from the era, but it is unlikely to strictly adhere to Worth’s original narratives.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Will there be a Series 14 of Call the Midwife?
Yes! Series 14 has been confirmed and is expected to air in 2025. Filming will likely begin sometime in Spring or Summer 2024.
Is Call the Midwife based on a true story?
Yes, Call the Midwife is based on the memoirs of Jennifer Worth, a midwife who worked in the East End of London in the 1950s and 1960s. While the show takes some creative liberties, many of the stories are inspired by real events and people.
What year is Call the Midwife set in currently?
The Christmas Special in 2023, and Series 13 which aired in 2024, were both set in 1969. Series 14, 15, and 16 will therefore likely continue into the early 1970s, reflecting the changing social and medical landscape of the era.
Will the original cast members return for future series?
While cast changes are inevitable over the course of a long-running series, many of the core cast members are expected to return for future series. However, specific details about cast availability are typically announced closer to the filming dates.
Where is Call the Midwife filmed?
Call the Midwife is primarily filmed at Longcross Studios in Surrey, England. Some scenes are also filmed on location in various parts of the UK, carefully chosen to recreate the atmosphere of 1960s London.
How 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 United States, it airs on PBS and is available for streaming on PBS Passport. Availability may vary in other countries, so check your local listings.
What are the main themes explored in Call the Midwife?
The show explores a wide range of themes, including women’s health, childbirth, poverty, social inequality, religious faith, community, and the changing face of British society in the post-war era. It is known for its compassionate and nuanced portrayal of these complex issues.
Will Jenny Agutter (Sister Julienne) be returning for future series?
As a cornerstone of the series, Jenny Agutter is highly likely to continue her role as Sister Julienne, offering guidance and stability to Nonnatus House.
Has Call the Midwife won any awards?
Yes, Call the Midwife has received numerous awards and nominations, including BAFTA Awards, National Television Awards, and RTS Awards. These accolades recognize the show’s exceptional quality and its impact on audiences.
What is the best way to catch up on past seasons of Call the Midwife?
Past seasons of Call the Midwife are available for streaming on BBC iPlayer (in the UK) and PBS Passport (in the US). They can also be purchased on DVD and Blu-ray.
Is there a Call the Midwife Christmas Special every year?
Yes, a Call the Midwife Christmas Special has become a beloved tradition, airing every year on Christmas Day in the UK and shortly thereafter in other countries. These specials offer heartwarming and festive stories that complement the main series.
Will the show ever address more modern medical practices?
While the show is rooted in the historical context of the 1950s and 1960s, it does gradually incorporate evolving medical practices as they become available and accepted. Future series may continue to explore the introduction of new technologies and treatments in the field of obstetrics and gynecology. The show will likely remain true to its timeline, offering a glimpse into historical medical advancements. When considering How Many More Series of Call the Midwife Are There?, it’s important to also look at how these potential future seasons will treat and depict medical history.