In a thrilling announcement that’s set the hearts of millions racing, the BBC has confirmed the return of “Call the Midwife” for its landmark 15th season, premiering on Sunday, January 11, 2026, at 8pm on BBC One and BBC iPlayer. Fresh off the emotional rollercoaster of a two-part Christmas special that whisked viewers to Hong Kong for a mercy mission, this new chapter thrusts Nonnatus House into the turbulent winds of change, cementing the show’s status as a British TV powerhouse with over a decade of heartfelt storytelling.

Set against the backdrop of 1971 Poplar in London’s East End, season 15 captures a Britain on the brink of transformation. The Women’s Liberation Movement takes center stage, with iconic scenes of bra-burning protests erupting right outside Nonnatus House, symbolizing the era’s push for equality and freedom. The midwives and nuns, long the backbone of the community, find themselves entangled in powerful demonstrations and deeply personal conflicts. As societal norms shift, characters grapple with evolving roles—balancing faith, duty, and modern demands. The series promises eight hour-long episodes brimming with twists, expectant mothers, and the miracle of new life amid chaos.

Fan-favorite Teddy Turner—Shelagh and Dr. Turner’s youngest son, whose life was forever altered by measles in his toddler years—makes a poignant return, adding layers of emotional depth. The plots dive into serious health crises, including premature births, placenta previa complications, kidney cancer battles, tuberculosis outbreaks, and even the shadows of modern slavery. These storylines aren’t just medical dramas; they mirror the broader social upheavals, from financial strains on healthcare to the threat of Nonnatus House’s closure. As funding dwindles and the NHS imposes new rules—like swapping habits for uniforms—the nuns face a crisis of identity, questioning their missionary calling in a “dangerous” future where community support becomes a lifeline.

The ensemble cast shines brighter than ever. Helen George reprises her role as the glamorous Nurse Trixie Franklin, navigating a strained marriage across the Atlantic after her husband Matthew’s move to New York. Jenny Agutter’s Sister Julienne leads with quiet resolve, while Laura Main’s Shelagh Turner and Stephen McGann’s Dr. Patrick Turner anchor the family dynamics. Linda Bassett’s no-nonsense Nurse Phyllis Crane, Judy Parfitt’s ethereal Sister Monica Joan, and newcomers like Renee Bailey’s Joyce Highland and Natalie Quarry’s Rosalind Clifford bring fresh energy. Zephryn Taitte’s Cyril Robinson sparks romance with Rosalind, amid the backdrop of budding relationships and heart-wrenching farewells.

Created by Heidi Thomas and based on Jennifer Worth’s memoirs, “Call the Midwife” has evolved from its 1950s origins into a chronicle of decades, blending nostalgia with hard-hitting realism. Since its 2012 debut, it’s drawn massive audiences—peaking at over 10 million viewers—thanks to its authentic portrayal of midwifery, poverty, and progress. The Christmas special’s international flair sets the tone for bolder narratives, with Sister Julienne eyeing expansion for the order.

But the excitement doesn’t stop at season 15. The universe is expanding dramatically: a prequel series delving into Poplar during World War II offers backstory on the nuns’ early days, while a feature film set overseas in 1972 will transport beloved characters to new horizons. Both projects, helmed by Thomas and producers Pippa Harris and Ann Tricklebank, promise to deepen the legacy.

As Britain reflects on its own changes, “Call the Midwife” remains a beacon of hope and humanity. Will Nonnatus House survive the storm? With its mix of joy, sorrow, and unyielding spirit, this season is poised to deliver unforgettable moments, reminding us that amid revolution, the human heart endures.