![Call the Midwife Call the Midwife](https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/3/2019/01/CTM-cast-916586c.jpg?quality=90&resize=620,413)
Call the Midwife is back on our screens, and Trixie is back at Nonnatus House, reuniting with Val, Lucille, Phyllis and all our familiar favourites.
But there are some major new characters arriving too, with Miriam Margolyes starring as Sister Mildred and two new midwives joining the team in Poplar. And, as ever, the drama has an impressive line-up of guest stars for every episode…
- When is Call the Midwife back on TV? Who are the new nurses and what is going to happen?
- Why is Call the Midwife so good at regenerating – even when major characters leave the cast?
- Where is Call the Midwife filmed?
Meet all the characters, and the actors who play them, below…
Helen George plays Nurse Trixie Franklin
![Helen George plays Nurse Trixie Franklin in Call the Midwife Helen George plays Nurse Trixie Franklin in Call the Midwife](https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/3/2019/01/Helen-George-plays-Nurse-Trixie-Franklin-in-Call-the-Midwife-2-d237350.jpg?quality=90&lb=620,413&background=white)
Who is Nurse Trixie Franklin? Trixie is a much-loved and extremely capable midwife. Following her battle with alcoholism and her relapse during the last series, Trixie went to visit her godmother in the Italian village of Portofino to recover. But she’s back in Poplar for series eight, arriving just in time for Christmas.
What else has Helen George been in? Helen George joined Call the Midwife right at the very beginning. She has appeared in Red Dwarf, Doctors and Hotel Babylon, and in 2015 she starred in Strictly Come Dancing where she waltzed her way to sixth place with Aljaz Skorjanec.
Helen actually fell in love on the set of Call the Midwife and began dating her co-star Jack Ashton, who played Reverend Tom until the end of series seven: she gave birth to their daughter, Wren, in September 2017.
Leonie Elliott plays Nurse Lucille Anderson
![Leonie Elliott plays Nurse Lucille Anderson in Call the Midwife Leonie Elliott plays Nurse Lucille Anderson in Call the Midwife](https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/3/2019/01/Leonie-Elliott-plays-Nurse-Lucille-Anderson-in-Call-the-Midwife-2-98c2747.jpg?quality=90&lb=620,413&background=white)
Who is Nurse Lucille Anderson? Originally from Jamaica, Lucille left her family behind and travelled alone to England in 1960 to train as a nurse, becoming the first West Indian midwife ever to join Nonnatus House. That was a year ago now, and she has gained a reputation as a talented and popular midwife, with an open heart and a sense of humour. This series, there are rumours of a love interest…
What else has Leonie Elliott been in? Aside from Call the Midwife, Leonie Elliott is best known for her role in Black Mirror episode Hated in the Nation, where she played Fiona, and for playing Hollie in recent BBC special Killed by My Debt. She has also appeared in Casualty, Boogie Man and Damned, and in 2015 she featured in Lenny Henry’s BBC comedy drama Danny and the Human Zoo. As a child actress she appeared on stage in The Lion King and Annie.
Jennifer Kirby plays Nurse Valerie Dyer
![Call The Midwife - Jennifer Kirby as Val Call The Midwife - Jennifer Kirby as Val](https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/3/2019/01/Jennifer-Kirby-in-Call-the-Midwife-3d87351.jpg?quality=90&lb=620,413&background=white)
Who is Nurse Valerie Dyer? Val is a Poplar native and grew up in the East End. She previously served in the army as a nurse, before returning home to work as a barmaid – and then deciding to become a midwife. Valerie is extremely dedicated to her work and to the women who she helps. In her free time, she teaches a baby ballet class.
What else has Jennifer Kirby been in? Jennifer Kirby made her TV breakthrough in Call the Midwife, but she also had an impressive stage career with the Royal Shakespeare Company before joining the BBC1 drama.
Jenny Agutter plays Sister Julienne
![Jenny Agutter plays Sister Julienne in Call the Midwife Jenny Agutter plays Sister Julienne in Call the Midwife](https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/3/2018/12/Jenny-Agutter-plays-Sister-Julienne-in-Call-the-Midwife-3172d80.jpg?quality=90&lb=620,413&background=white)
Who is Sister Julienne? Kind-hearted and softly-spoken Sister Julienne is the boss at Nonnatus House. She is highly respected by her team of midwives.
What else has Jenny Agutter been in? Jenny Agutter OBE began her career as a child actress in 1964 in East of Sudan, followed by Star! and The Railway Children – which became a classic movie. She went on to appear in An American Werewolf In London and Logan’s Run, and won an Emmy for her role in The Snow Goose in 1971. She has also picked up a Bafta for playing Jill Mason in the 1977 film Equus. Having quit Hollywood in the 1990s, she moved home to Britain and appeared in The Railway Children again – this time as the mother. In the past few years she has popped up in Monday Monday, Queen of the Desert, and The Invisibles, recently starring in the movie Sometimes Always Never alongside Bill Nighy.
NEWCOMER: Miriam Margolyes plays Sister Mildred
![Miriam Margolyes plays Sister Mildred in Call the Midwife Miriam Margolyes plays Sister Mildred in Call the Midwife](https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/3/2018/12/Miriam-Margolyes-plays-Sister-Mildred-in-Call-the-Midwife-f5f75b5.jpg?quality=90&lb=620,413&background=white)
Who is Sister Mildred? Described as “a forthright and indefatigable sister from the Order,” Sister Mildred is a bit of an unlikely nun. She arrives at Nonnatus House at Christmastime with four Chinese child refugees in tow from her trip to Hong Kong, who she is taking to the Mother House’s orphanage to meet their adoptive parents. Sister Mildred has a big personality and a sense of humour, and is also extremely chatty.
What else has Miriam Margolyes been in? You may recognise her as Professor Sprout from the Harry Potter movies, but Miriam Margolyes has been in so many films and TV shows that you’re bound to have seen her in something. She won a Bafta for her role in The Age of Innocence in 1993, and since then has starred in Bucket, Miss Fisher’s Murder Mysteries, Trollied, Rake, and Bottersnikes & Gumbles. On the stage, she starred in the acclaimed I’ll Eat You Last, and will soon be taking on The Lady in the Van for a production in Melbourne.
NEWCOMER: Ella Bruccoleri plays Sister Frances
![Ella Bruccoleri plays Sister Frances in Call the Midwife Ella Bruccoleri plays Sister Frances in Call the Midwife](https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/3/2018/12/Ella-Bruccoleri-plays-Sister-Frances-in-Call-the-Midwife-22ce6e3.jpg?quality=90&lb=620,413&background=white)
Who is Sister Frances? Sister Frances is a young nun who has only recently joined the Order as a “postulant” – i.e., when we meet her she is seeking admission into the nuns’ religious order. Having taken a vow of obedience, she is sent to serve god as a midwife at Nonnatus House.
Speaking on set, Bruccoleri says: “I start out as postulant and then we see her take her vows and enter the religious life. She’s from up North. She’s an innocent really. She’s a bit clumsy and a bit gawky and doesn’t really know what the right things to say are and when but she is driven by love.”Sister Frances doesn’t really know what she is doing but she’s trying very hard. She’s completely new to the whole thing.”
Explaining why her character is so keen to become a nun, she tells us: “She was brought up in a religious family, but she genuinely has a huge need to help other people and that’s why she wanted to be a nun in the community serving others as opposed to just praying and reflecting. She really just loves people.”
That said, Sister Frances is “terrified” about going to Poplar – worried about this “completely new, unknown situation” and whether she will fit in or be able to do the job.
Unfortunately for Sister Frances, her lack of experience does make her a liability when she arrives at Nonnatus House.
“Certain people are not too happy that I am moving to a community where I have to suddenly have quite an active role, particularly within the nursing side of things, but I don’t really know what I’m doing,” she says. “So I a little bit of a dead weight and not very helpful. But I’m learning as I go. She’s a little bit shocked because Poplar is so different from what she is used to.”
What else has Ella Bruccoleri been in? The actress has actually already played a nun, in an episode of The Last Kingdom. She has also appeared in the TV series Genius, but is a relative newcomer to the acting world, having graduated from drama school in 2017. “This is crazy for me because it’s quite early on in my career,” Bruccoleri says.
NEWCOMER: Fenella Woolgar plays Sister Hilda
![Fenella Woolgar plays Sister Hilda in Call the Midwife Fenella Woolgar plays Sister Hilda in Call the Midwife](https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/3/2018/12/Fenella-Woolgar-plays-Sister-Hilda-in-Call-the-Midwife-f10c138.jpg?quality=90&lb=620,413&background=white)
Who is Sister Hilda? This newcomer to Call the Midwife also arrives from the Order’s mother house, and has been described as a “jump-in kind of person” who is already familiar with the East End. She and Sister Frances are sent to become midwives at the understaffed Nonnatus House.
“Sister Hilda is older and more experienced,” Woolgar said. “She was in the WAAF during the war so I think that probably led to some of those decisions because by the end of the war she had joined and obviously during the war you see some horrendous things. Also, she has been a nurse before.
“She is quite jolly and out there and enthusiastic and wants to help.”
What else has Fenella Woolgar been in? The actress first rose to attention in Stephen Fry’s film Bright Young Things. Her other credits include Vera Drake, Mr Turner, and Scoop – and in 2008 she played Agatha Christie in Doctor Who. Recent TV roles have included Alison Scotlock in Home Fires, Lady Repton in Harlots, and Catiche Kuragina in War & Peace.
Laura Main plays Shelagh Turner
![Laura Main plays Shelagh Turner in Call the Midwife Laura Main plays Shelagh Turner in Call the Midwife](https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/3/2019/01/Laura-Main-plays-Shelagh-Turner-in-Call-the-Midwife-2-02bbd85.jpg?quality=90&lb=620,413&background=white)
Who is Shelagh Turner? Formerly a nun and a midwife, Shelagh Turner (once known as Sister Bernadette) is now married with three kids. Her husband, Dr Turner, is GP to the people of Poplar, and Shelagh continues to work closely with Nonnatus House – helping out at the doctor’s surgery and stepping in to lend a hand when the midwives need help.
What else has Laura Main been in? Scottish actress Laura Main first appeared on the stage at the age of 11 in a production of The Sound of Music. Her career has mainly been in theatre, but she featured as DC Alison Bain in ITV’s Murder City and played Rebecca Howlett in TV mini-series The Mill.
Stephen McGann plays Dr Patrick Turner
![Stephen McGann plays Dr Patrick Turner in Call the Midwife Stephen McGann plays Dr Patrick Turner in Call the Midwife](https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/3/2019/01/Stephen-McGann-plays-Dr-Patrick-Turner-in-Call-the-Midwife-2-2d46f1f.jpg?quality=90&lb=620,413&background=white)
Who is Dr Patrick Turner? A tireless local GP, Dr Turner adores his job and will work himself into the ground. He is also a loving husband and father.
What else has Stephen McGann been in? In real life, Stephen McGann is actually married to Call the Midwife creator and screenwriter Heidi Thomas, and is the brother of Doctor Who actor Paul McGann. Like Dr Turner, he’s a man of science, having studied for a Masters in Science Communication and written a book titled Flesh and Blood. He previously spent three years in Emmerdale playing Sean Reynolds.
NEWCOMER: Georgie Glen plays Miss Higgins
![Georgie Glen plays Miss Higgins in Call the Midwife Georgie Glen plays Miss Higgins in Call the Midwife](https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/3/2019/01/Georgie-Glen-plays-Miss-Higgins-in-Call-the-Midwife-2-a43f650.jpg?quality=90&lb=620,413&background=white)
Who is Miss Higgins? The new receptionist at Dr Turner’s surgery.
What else has Georgie Glen been in? With more than 100 film and TV credits to her name, you’ll have seen Georgie Glen in something. Her recent roles include Pat in Sally4Ever, Rose Kennedy in Jackie, and Aunt Bridget in The Evermoor Chronicles.
Max MacMillan plays Timothy Turner
![Call the Midwife - Timothy Turner Call the Midwife - Timothy Turner](https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/3/2018/02/Call-the-Midwife-Timothy-Turner-c4b6dfb.jpg?quality=90&lb=620,413&background=white)
Who is Timothy Turner? Timothy is the Turners’ eldest child. Now an awkward teenager, he has developed a strong interest in girls. He is intelligent, hard working and conscientious.
What else has Max MacMillan been in? Max MacMillan has grown up on the show: his character was only 11 years old when he joined. He’s currently filming a role in the movie The Song of Names, starring alongside Eddie Izzard, Tim Roth and Catherine McCormack.
Linda Bassett plays Nurse Phyllis Crane
![EMB 16 JAN Call the Midwife - Linda Bassett as Nurse Phyllis Crane Call the Midwife - Linda Bassett as Nurse Phyllis Crane](https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/3/2018/01/Call-the-Midwife-Linda-Bassett-as-Nurse-Phyllis-Crane-1435b0b.jpg?quality=90&lb=620,413&background=white)
Who is Nurse Phyllis Crane? Nurse Phyllis Crane is a bit of a battleaxe – in a good way. She is dedicated to her job as a senior midwife and will do anything to protect her patients. Phyllis is very close to some of the younger midwives, especially Trixie.
What else has Linda Bassett been in? Linda Basset was nominated for a Best Actress Bafta for her performance as Ella Khan in the 1999 film East Is East. Her past TV credits include period dramas Sense and Sensibility and Lark Rise to Candleford, and on the big screen she has been in The Reader and Calendar Girls.
Judy Parfitt plays Sister Monica Joan
![Judy Parfitt plays Sister Monica Joan in Call the Midwife Judy Parfitt plays Sister Monica Joan in Call the Midwife](https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/3/2018/12/Judy-Parfitt-plays-Sister-Monica-Joan-in-Call-the-Midwife-20b605b.jpg?quality=90&lb=620,413&background=white)
Who is Sister Monica Joan? Monica Joan was one of the first women to qualify as a midwife in Britain. Now retired and suffering from dementia, she lives at Nonnatus House where her former colleagues lovingly care for her. She serves as a mentor to the team of midwives, but is increasingly distressed at her limitations and by her confusion. In the previous series she was losing her eyesight, but a cataract operation restored her vision.
What else has Judy Parfitt been in? Judy Parfitt has been nominated for a Bafta twice in her long career: she played Maria Thins in Girl With A Pearl Earring, and Mildred Layton in The Jewel In The Crown. In recent years she has starred in Up The Women, The Game, and Little Dorrit. The 82-year-old has been in Call The Midwife since the first time she opened the doors of Nonnatus House to welcome us inside.
Victoria Yeates plays Sister Winifred
![Victoria Yeates plays Sister Winifred in Call the Midwife Victoria Yeates plays Sister Winifred in Call the Midwife](https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/3/2019/01/Victoria-Yeates-plays-Sister-Winifred-in-Call-the-Midwife-2-7e7e0ac.jpg?quality=90&lb=620,413&background=white)
Who is Sister Winifred? Former teacher Sister Winifred lived most of her life in the countryside and previously worked at a small cottage hospital in a rural town. Innocent and warm-hearted, she was initially shocked by Poplar but grew in confidence. Her religious calling is absolutely central in her life, and she has now left Nonnatus House to work with orphaned children at the Mother House.
What else has Victoria Yeates been in? Victoria Yeates joined Call the Midwife back in series three. She has just made her debut in Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald, playing the magical Bunty, and will be leaving Nonnatus House behind to continue in that role.
Cliff Parisi plays Fred Buckle
![Cliff Parisi plays Fred Buckle in Call the Midwife Cliff Parisi plays Fred Buckle in Call the Midwife](https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/3/2018/12/Cliff-Parisi-plays-Fred-Buckle-in-Call-the-Midwife-2-4bc6eb7.jpg?quality=90&lb=620,413&background=white)
Who is Fred Buckle? Handyman Fred is always a friendly face to see around Nonnatus House. He is married to Violet and they have now been joined by orphaned young man Reggie, who has Down’s Syndrome.
What else has Cliff Parisi been in? EastEnders fans will recognise Cliff Parisi as Rick “Minty” Peterson, a role he held for eight years. He went on to appear in Hollyoaks, Outnumbered and Midsomer Murders, but since 2012 he has been a regular face in Call the Midwife.
Annabelle Apsion plays Violet Buckle
![Annabelle Apison plays Violet Buckle in Call the Midwife Annabelle Apison plays Violet Buckle in Call the Midwife](https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/3/2018/12/Annabelle-Apison-plays-Violet-Buckle-in-Call-the-Midwife-e1f073d.jpg?quality=90&lb=620,413&background=white)
Who is Violet Buckle? Widowed shopkeeper Violet married Fred in series four. These days they have a new lease of life after adding Reggie to the family. She is deeply involved in the local community, organising events for Poplar’s young families and always trying to help out in the neighbourhood.
What else has Annabelle Apsion been in? Annabelle Apsion is better known as Monica Gallagher from Shameless, or as Joy Wilton from Soldier Soldier. More recently she’s appeared in The Halcyon, The Village and Doc Martin.
Daniel Laurie plays Reggie Jackson
![Daniel Laurie plays Reggie Jackson in Call the Midwife Daniel Laurie plays Reggie Jackson in Call the Midwife](https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/3/2019/01/Daniel-Laurie-plays-Reggie-Jackson-in-Call-the-Midwife-2-2fcd782.jpg?quality=90&lb=620,413&background=white)
Who is Reggie Jackson? Reggie first appeared in series six when the nuns at Nonnatus House stepped in to help him: his mother had recently died, leaving him orphaned. He has Down’s Syndrome and now lives with Fred and Violet Buckle, helping Fred at work.
What else has Daniel Laurie been in? Actor Daniel Laurie starred in Sky1 comedy Stella as Jamie – and led the cast of the Radio 4 adaptation of Charles Dickens’ Barnaby Rudge back in 2014.
Trevor Cooper plays Sergeant Woolf
![Trevor Cooper plays Sergeant Woolf in Call the Midwife Trevor Cooper plays Sergeant Woolf in Call the Midwife](https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/3/2019/01/Trevor-Cooper-plays-Sergeant-Woolf-in-Call-the-Midwife-46ecc3c.jpg?quality=90&lb=620,413&background=white)
Who is Sergeant Woolf? Officious and gruff law-enforcer Sergeant Woolf has met his match in Nurse Crane, who gives as good as she gets. The two first crossed paths in 2017’s Christmas special and it has been clear ever since that he has a crush on her… but does she reciprocate?
What else has Trevor Cooper been in? Trevor Cooper was a big hit as Len Clifton in the BBC3 comedy This Country. The series is written and created by his niece Daisy and nephew Charlie Cooper and also stars his brother Paul, so it’s a real family affair. His other credits include Doctor Who, Outnumbered and Inside No 9.
Click on ‘next’ to find out more about Call the Midwife’s guest stars
Call the Midwife guest stars
Bessie Coates plays Julie Schroeder
![Bessie Coates plays cancer patient Julie Schroeder in Call the Midwife Bessie Coates plays cancer patient Julie Schroeder in Call the Midwife](https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/3/2019/02/Bessie-Coates-plays-cancer-patient-Julie-Schroeder-in-Call-the-Midwife-735e9a8.jpg?quality=90&lb=620,413&background=white)
Who is Julie Schroeder? A 17-year-old who has just finished radiation treatment for cancer. Her parents are unable to come to turns with just how ill she really is, but Sister Hilda has been assigned to change her bandages. Julie is desperate to experience some of the joys in life and has set her heart on attending Shelagh’s ball at the Institute.
What else has Bessie Coates been in? A relative newcomer to our screens, Bessie Coates recently played Margaret in Upstart Crow.
Kerry Godliman plays Ena Schroeder
![Kerry Godliman plays Julie's mum Ena Schroeder in Call the Midwife Kerry Godliman plays Julie's mum Ena Schroeder in Call the Midwife](https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/3/2019/02/Kerry-Godliman-plays-Julies-mum-Ena-Schroeder-in-Call-the-Midwife-48527f8.jpg?quality=90&lb=620,413&background=white)
Who is Ena Schroeder? Julie’s mother. She and her husband Alf Schroeder (Nick Waring) have an ever-growing family, with a new baby on the way, and Ena is struggling to cope with the prospect of her teenage daughter’s death. Alf became Julie’s father when she was five years old but struggles to demonstrate his affection.
What else has Kerry Godliman been in? The comedian and actress has appeared in shows including Bad Move, Save Me, Derek and Our Girl. She has also been a panellist on Taskmaster, The Last Leg and Mock the Week.
Ann Mitchell plays Elsie Dyer
Who is Elsie Dyer? Val’s grandmother. Elsie is extremely proud of her granddaughter and her achievements as a midwife, but is perhaps a little lonely. A dignified older lady, she is reluctant to go to the doctor for any embarrassing health problems, preferring to invite Val over to her house in the East End.
What else has Ann Mitchell been in? The actress plays the outspoken Cora Cross in EastEnders. She first rose to fame in the 1980s as Dolly Rawlins in the crime series Widows. In 2018 she made a cameo as another character in Steve McQueen’s film version.
Zephryn Taitte plays Cyril Robinson
![Zephryn Taitte plays Cyril Robinson in Call the Midwife Zephryn Taitte plays Cyril Robinson in Call the Midwife](https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/3/2019/02/Zephryn-Taitte-plays-Cyril-Robinson-in-Call-the-Midwife-4589d77.jpg?quality=90&lb=620,413&background=white)
Who is Cyril Robinson? A mechanic who Phyllis hires to fix her car. Cyril is an immigrant from Guyana and spends his evenings studying civil engineering, and he immediately takes a liking to Lucille. But will she return his affections?
What else has Zephryn Taitte been in? He played Dorian in the TV series Brothers with No Game, and has also appeared in The Hour and Doctors. Zephryn Taitte’s stage work includes Glengarry Cross, trust, and The Tempest.
Rosie Sheehy plays Heather Pugh
![Rosie Sheehy plays Heather Pugh in Call the Midwife Rosie Sheehy plays Heather Pugh in Call the Midwife](https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/3/2019/02/Rosie-Sheehy-plays-Heather-Pugh-in-Call-the-Midwife-1467e58.jpg?quality=90&lb=620,413&background=white)
Who is Heather Pugh? A young mother expecting her first child. She visits the clinic complaining about frequent urination and a funny smell.
What else has Rosie Sheehy been in? The actress played Kat Richards in the TV series DCI Banks, but is more commonly found on stage.
Phill Langhorne plays Vince Pugh
![Phill Langhorne plays Vince Pugh in Call the Midwife Phill Langhorne plays Vince Pugh in Call the Midwife](https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/3/2019/02/Phill-Langhorne-plays-Vince-Pugh-in-Call-the-Midwife-b7cb1df.jpg?quality=90&lb=620,413&background=white)
Who is Vince Pugh? Heather’s husband. He makes money in the evening working at the races, taking bets from punters.
What else has Phill Langhorne been in? By his own description, Phill Langhorne “plays a lot of policemen.” He has appeared in Krypton, EastEnders, Doctors, Holby City, and Transformers: The Last Knight.
Sophie Ladds plays Ivy
![Sophie Ladds plays Ivy in Call the Midwife Sophie Ladds plays Ivy in Call the Midwife](https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/3/2019/02/Sophie-Ladds-plays-Ivy-in-Call-the-Midwife-a378dd0.jpg?quality=90&lb=620,413&background=white)
Who is Ivy? Heather’s friend and neighbour. She and husband Toby (played by Eric Blakemore) already have one son, and now another baby is on the way.
What else has Sophie Ladds been in? Screen credits include Silent Witness, Doctors, and Bear Behaving Badly.
Claire Keelan plays Gilda Brittall
![Claire Keelan plays Gilda Brittall in Call the Midwife Claire Keelan plays Gilda Brittall in Call the Midwife](https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/3/2019/02/Claire-Keelan-plays-Gilda-Brittall-in-Call-the-Midwife-034c811.jpg?quality=90&lb=620,413&background=white)
Who is Gilda Brittall? A Poplar woman with a lot of worries on her plate. Her father-in-law Joe is in the process of dying, and now her husband Barney Brittall (Tim Treloar) – who works as a docker – is suffering from health problems of his own. Her two grown-up sons Ed (Frankie Wilson) and John (Joe Flynn) also work as dockers and the whole Brittall family is deeply concerned about lax safety standards at the dockyard.
What else has Claire Keelan been in? Line of Duty season one, where she played DS Leah Janson. Keelan’s other credits include Steve Coogan and Rob Brydon’s The Trip (as Emma), The Last Weekend (as Em), and Black Mirror (as Naomi). She has also popped up in Paddington 2, playing a police officer.
Dennis Banks plays Joe Brittall
![Dennis Banks plays Joe Brittall in Call the Midwife Dennis Banks plays Joe Brittall in Call the Midwife](https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/3/2019/02/Dennis-Banks-plays-Joe-Brittall-in-Call-the-Midwife-0592ccd.jpg?quality=90&lb=620,413&background=white)
Who is Joe Brittall? A retired docker who has end-stage pneumoconiosis after a lifetime of manual labour. He has been discharged from hospital so he can be given palliative care at home, and the nurses visit him every day to administer oxygen.
What else has Dennis Banks been in? It’s unlikely you’ve seen his face on TV before, as he’s a newcomer to our screens.
Hannah Rae plays Elaine Pilkington
![Hannah Rae plays Elaine Pilkington in Call the Midwife Hannah Rae plays Elaine Pilkington in Call the Midwife](https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/3/2019/02/Hannah-Rae-plays-Elaine-Pilkington-in-Call-the-Midwife-39bd6a1.jpg?quality=90&lb=620,413&background=white)
Who is Elaine Pilkington? A teenager who has been concealing her pregnancy from her unsympathetic parents. She is determined to keep the baby and raise it herself.
What else has Hannah Rae been in? You may remember her from Broadchurch, where she played Tess and Alec’s daughter Daisy Hardy. She has also made appearances in Manhunt (as Sarah Knight) and City of Tiny Lights (alongside Riz Ahmed and Billie Piper).
Holly Freeman plays Lois Parry
![Holly Freeman plays Lois Parry in Call the Midwife Holly Freeman plays Lois Parry in Call the Midwife](https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/3/2019/02/Holly-Freeman-plays-Lois-Parry-in-Call-the-Midwife-873d5e4.jpg?quality=90&lb=620,413&background=white)
Who is Lois Parry? A young woman about to get married. She attends Dr Turner’s clinic for a cervical smear, hoping for some reassurance that everything is as it should be – but instead she receives some surprising news.
What else has Holly Freeman been in? This is the first on-screen appearance for the young actress, who recently graduated from stage school.
Sarah Belcher plays Bronwyn Parry
![Sarah Belcher plays Bronwyn Parry in Call the Midwife Sarah Belcher plays Bronwyn Parry in Call the Midwife](https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/3/2019/02/Sarah-Belcher-plays-Bronwyn-Parry-in-Call-the-Midwife-99454bf.jpg?quality=90&lb=620,413&background=white)
Who is Bronwyn Parry? Lois’ mother. She gave birth under the care of Sister Monica Joan 22 years ago, and is now excited for her daughter’s wedding.
What else has Sarah Belcher been in? Screen credits include Holby City, Brexit: The Uncivil War, and EastEnders. Sarah Belcher is better known for her theatre work, with more than 30 productions to her name.
Nancy Sullivan plays Pam Sharp
![Nancy Sullivan plays Pam Sharp in Call the Midwife Nancy Sullivan plays Pam Sharp in Call the Midwife](https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/3/2019/02/Nancy-Sullivan-plays-Pam-Sharp-in-Call-the-Midwife-acb4ce5.jpg?quality=90&lb=620,413&background=white)
Who is Pam Sharp? A local woman in the late stages of pregnancy. She can’t wait to be a mother.
What else has Nancy Sullivan been in? The actress has appeared in the 2012 movie Les Misérables, and in Harry Price: Ghost Hunter.
Jack Doolan plays George Sharp
![Jack Doolan plays George Sharp in Call the Midwife Jack Doolan plays George Sharp in Call the Midwife](https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/3/2019/02/Jack-Doolan-plays-George-Sharp-in-Call-the-Midwife-2464597.jpg?quality=90&lb=620,413&background=white)
Who is George Sharp? Pam’s husband. He is nervous about taking part in preparations for the baby.
What else has Jack Doolan been in? Perhaps best known for playing DC Mark Travis in Marcella, Jack Doolan has also appeared in White Gold, playing Andrew Davies. He also starred in Only Fools and Horses spin-off The Green Green Grass as Tyler – the teenage son of Boycie (John Challis) and Marlene (Sue Holderness).
Hannah Hutch plays Cilla Singh
![Hannah Hutch plays Cilla Singh in Call the Midwife Hannah Hutch plays Cilla Singh in Call the Midwife](https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/3/2019/01/Hannah-Hutch-plays-Cilla-Singh-in-Call-the-Midwife-2-cbb6905.jpg?quality=90&lb=620,413&background=white)
Who is Cilla Singh? Expectant first-time mother Cilla lives with her husband of one year, Pardeep. She craves her mother’s support and affection, but unfortunately her mum (who – coincidentally – is also pregnant) didn’t approve of the marriage and has been giving them the cold shoulder.
What else has Hannah Hutch been in? A relative newcomer to our screens, Hannah Hutch has made a handful of appearances in Shakespeare & Hathaway, Babs, and Doctors.
Omar Malik plays Pardeep Singh
![Omar Malik plays Pardeep Singh in Call the Midwife Omar Malik plays Pardeep Singh in Call the Midwife](https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/3/2019/01/Omar-Malik-plays-Pardeep-Singh-in-Call-the-Midwife-8f83151.jpg?quality=90&lb=620,413&background=white)
Who is Pardeep Singh? Cilla’s husband. A Sikh immigrant from India, he is ambitious and desperate to provide for his new family – but racism prevents him from progressing at the factory. He hopes that his mother-in-law will soon accept him and come around to the marriage.
What else has Omar Malik been in? The actor’s TV and movie credits include Young Dracula, Tracey Ullman’s Show, The Dumping Ground, No Offence, and Holby City.
Niky Wardley plays Enid Wilson
![Niky Wardley plays Enid Wilson in Call the Midwife Niky Wardley plays Enid Wilson in Call the Midwife](https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/3/2019/01/Niky-Wardley-plays-Enid-Wilson-in-Call-the-Midwife-d8d6d3b.jpg?quality=90&lb=620,413&background=white)
Who is Enid Wilson? Cilla’s mum. At 44, she was “caught out” by an unexpected pregnancy and is now due around the same time as her estranged daughter. Mrs Wilson is a proud and demanding woman who hates to back down.
What else has Niky Wardley been in? The actress starred in The Catherine Tate Show, playing a number of characters including Lisa Jackson. Since then she has appeared in Coronation Street (as Jenny Sumner), the Pinky and Perky Show (as Tamara), Still Open All Hours (as Mrs Jackson) and Are You Being Served (as Miss Brahms). Most recently, she starred in Home from Home as Fiona Hackett.
Molly Chesworth plays Jeannie Tennant
![Molly Chesworth plays Jeannie Tennant in Call the Midwife Molly Chesworth plays Jeannie Tennant in Call the Midwife](https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/3/2019/01/Molly-Chesworth-plays-Jeannie-Tennant-in-Call-the-Midwife-0c2bf18.jpg?quality=90&lb=620,413&background=white)
Who is Jeannie Tennant? A mother-of-two who attends Trixie’s Keep Fit classes, where she displays particular skill with the hula hoop. She has two young kids and is working to give them a better childhood than she had: in fact, she and her husband are about to buy their first house.
What else has Molly Chesworth been in? A recent graduate of the Oxford School of Drama, this is Molly Chesworth’s first on-screen role.
Bryan Parry plays Frank Tennant
![Bryan Parry plays Frank Tennant in Call the Midwife Bryan Parry plays Frank Tennant in Call the Midwife](https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/3/2019/01/Bryan-Parry-plays-Frank-Tennant-in-Call-the-Midwife-045b0ff.jpg?quality=90&lb=620,413&background=white)
Who is Frank Tennant? Jeannie’s husband. He also has big dreams, and is working hard to bring in the money for their first house together.
What else has Bryan Parry been in? He popped up as PC Everly in Rillington Place, played Freddie Preston in the TV series In the Flesh, and was Louis McQueen in Hollyoaks Later back in 2013.
Lisa Ellis plays Betty Marwick
![Lisa Ellis plays Betty Marwick in Call the Midwife Lisa Ellis plays Betty Marwick in Call the Midwife](https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/3/2019/01/Lisa-Ellis-plays-Betty-Marwick-in-Call-the-Midwife-7798fb7.jpg?quality=90&lb=620,413&background=white)
Who is Betty Marwick? Betty has her hands full with her huge family – and now there’s another one on the way. Her husband is away at sea and she is finding it difficult to cope by herself, especially when she finds out her new baby will need extra care and attention.
What else has Lisa Ellis been in? Her TV credits include Doctors, Rillington Place, and EastEnders – where she played Marni. On stage she has starred in Hedda Gabler, Roots, The Canterbury Tales and David Copperfield.
Matti Houghton plays Hazel Becker
![Matti Houghton plays Hazel Becker in Call the Midwife Matti Houghton plays Hazel Becker in Call the Midwife](https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/3/2019/01/Matti-Houghton-plays-Hazel-Becker-in-Call-the-Midwife-fe7122a.jpg?quality=90&lb=620,413&background=white)
Who is Hazel Becker? New mum Mrs Becker is extremely worried about her daughter getting sick – to the point of obsession. Dr Turner, Shelagh and Miss Higgins are determined to get to the bottom of her distress and work out how to help her.
What else has Matti Houghton been in? She played DS Nicola Hart in the TV series Manhunt, and has also made appearances in The Collection, Luther, and Wire in the Blood.
Tom McCall plays Martin Becker
Who is Martin Becker? Hazel’s husband. He is worried and frustrated by his wife’s behaviour but doesn’t know how to help.
What else has Tom McCall been in? He appeared in Black Mirror’s innovative Netflix episode Bandersnatch as a paramedic, and has taken on roles in Wallander, Bloodshot and Doctors. Tom McCall has also starred in a number of productions at the Royal Shakespeare Company.
Annette Crosbie plays Clarice Millgrove
![Annette Crosbie plays Clarice Millgrove in Call the Midwife Annette Crosbie plays Clarice Millgrove in Call the Midwife](https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/3/2019/01/Annette-Crosbie-plays-Clarice-Millgrove-in-Call-the-Midwife-2f6a412.jpg?quality=90&lb=620,413&background=white)
Who is Clarice Millgrove? Nurse Lucille Anderson is sent to visit Dr Turner’s patient Clarice Millgrove when she doesn’t show up for several appointments to treat an ulcer on her leg. When Lucille manages to get inside her house, she is shocked to find that Clarice is a reclusive hoarder who is no longer able to take care of herself.
Where have I seen Annette Crosbie before? The actress, 84, played Margaret Meldrew in the classic BBC sitcom One Foot in the Grave. She has won two Baftas, and appeared in more than 120 TV shows and movies in a career stretching back to 1959 – including Henry IX, Doctor Who, Into the Woods, The Six Wives of Henry VIII, The Slipper and the Rose, Little Dorrit, and Calendar Girls.
Jessica Kennedy plays Flora Aidoo
![Jessica Kennedy plays Flora Aidoo in Call the Midwife Jessica Kennedy plays Flora Aidoo in Call the Midwife](https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/3/2019/01/Jessica-Kennedy-plays-Flora-Aidoo-in-Call-the-Midwife-b60c660.jpg?quality=90&lb=620,413&background=white)
Who is Flora Aidoo? Young mum Flora Aidoo lives in Poplar with her husband Joel and son Matthew, and is pregnant with her second child. The pregnancy has left her anaemic, and she is also concerned about her son’s “growing pains” which are so bad he has to stay home from school.
Where have I seen Jessica Kennedy before? This is her first on-screen appearance.
Ekow Quartey plays Joel Aidoo
![Eko Quartey plays Joel Aidoo in Call the Midwife Eko Quartey plays Joel Aidoo in Call the Midwife](https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/3/2019/01/Eko-Quartey-plays-Joel-Aidoo-in-Call-the-Midwife-23ef82a.jpg?quality=90&lb=620,413&background=white)
Who is Joel Aidoo? A recent arrival from Ghana with his wife and son, Joel is full of optimism about making a better life for his family. He works for the Post Office and has great hopes of advancement.
Where have I seen Ekow Quartey before? As a kid, he appeared as a Gryffindor student in the movie Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban. He has a handful of screen credits including The Current War, A Proposal and Zapped, but is best known for his theatre work including Barber Shop Chronicles, Amadeus, People Places & Things, Richard II and As You Like It.
Zion Kofi plays Matthew Aidoo
![Zion Kofi plays Matthew Aidoo in Call the Midwife Zion Kofi plays Matthew Aidoo in Call the Midwife](https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/3/2019/01/Zion-Kofi-plays-Matthew-Aidoo-in-Call-the-Midwife-8b28a0c.jpg?quality=90&lb=620,413&background=white)
Who is Matthew Aidoo? Flora and Joel’s son. He is looking forward to being an older brother.
Where have I seen Zion Kofi before? This is his first on-screen role.
Jordon Stevens plays Lesley Whyte
![Jordon Stevens plays Lesley Whyte in Call the Midwife Jordon Stevens plays Lesley Whyte in Call the Midwife](https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/3/2019/01/Jordon-Stevens-plays-Lesley-Whyte-in-Call-the-Midwife-5ddef25.jpg?quality=90&lb=620,413&background=white)
Who is Lesley Whyte? An expectant mother just about to give birth to her first baby, with husband Ned (Harry Haynes).
Where have I seen Jordon Stevens before? She played Amelia Scanwell in the TV series Harlots, and was also Lady Baltimore’s daughter in Phantom Thread.
Emily Barber plays Cath Hindman
![Emily Barber plays Cath Hindman in Call the Midwife Emily Barber plays Cath Hindman in Call the Midwife](https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/3/2019/01/Emily-Barber-plays-Cath-Hindman-in-Call-the-Midwife-880fa85.jpg?quality=90&lb=620,413&background=white)
Who is Cath Hindman? Lesley’s little sister. She is hoping to launch her career as a fashion model, and wears the shortest 1960s minidress Call the Midwife has ever seen.
Where have I seen Emily Barber before? She played Gwendolen in The Importance of Being Earnest, and was also Cassandra in The Royals.
Jessica Clark plays Margaret Lombardi
![Jessica Clark plays Margaret Lombardi in Call the Midwife Jessica Clark plays Margaret Lombardi in Call the Midwife](https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/3/2019/01/Jessica-Clark-plays-Margaret-Lombardi-in-Call-the-Midwife-c586e0a.jpg?quality=90&lb=620,413&background=white)
Who is Margaret Lombardi? A stressed-out and heavily-pregnant mother whose husband is pretty clueless about helping with their existing children.
Where have I seen Jessica Clark before? Versailles fans will remember her as Princess Palatine. Her other credits include Casualty, Silent Witness, and Doctors.
Bronwyn James plays Mavis Holler
![Mavis Holler plays Bronwyn James in Call the Midwife Mavis Holler plays Bronwyn James in Call the Midwife](https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/3/2018/12/Screenshot-2018-12-25-at-10.11.28-365b8ed.png?quality=90&crop=166px,0px,998px,665px&resize=620,413)
Who is Mavis Holler? An East End mother expecting her second child. This time she’s decided to go with a hospital birth – but not everything goes according to plan.
What else has Bronwyn James been in? She played Fanny Lambert in the TV series Harlots, and was a familiar face on television for Christmas 2018 with a starring role in Poirot drama The ABC Murders.
Christy Sullivan plays Lena Tremblay
![Christy Sullivan plays Lena Tremblay in Call the Midwife Christy Sullivan plays Lena Tremblay in Call the Midwife](https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/3/2018/12/Christy-Sullivan-plays-Lena-Tremblay-in-Call-the-Midwife-2f3526e.jpg?quality=90&lb=620,413&background=white)
Who is Lena Tremblay? A heavily-pregnant and distressed young woman who keeps turning up at the Mother House – and then running away. What is troubling her so much, and why does she keep coming back?
What else has Christy Sullivan been in? Roles include Elizabeth Wilkerson in Texas Rising, and Elle in Under the Bridge.
Call the Midwife season eight airs on Sundays on PBS at 8/7c
This article was originally published in December 2018
from Radio Times http://bit.ly/2KllExJ