Call the Midwife fans spot iconic character 'missing' during first look of new series

Call the Midwife has given fans a major update about the upcoming series, but viewers are concerned for one beloved character who was noticeably absent from the latest cast photo. The much-loved drama has confirmed its return to our screens with a special Christmas episode this year, followed by the 15th series in 2026.

A new photo of the cast on set was shared on the show's official Instagram account, featuring familiar faces such as Helen George, Laura Main, Stephen McGann and Linda Bassett. The sneak peek image from the festive episode showed the stars beaming, dressed in winter attire amidst artificial snow.

The caption excitedly announced: "NEWS! ! ! Call the Midwife Cast Begins Filming For Series 15! It's official - our team are back in Poplar! !" The post went on to express delight at the start of filming for the fifteenth series, highlighting the unique challenges of shooting a Christmas episode in May. The caption added: "Oh, and of course, filming Christmas means....another heatwave in the UK."

It humorously noted the irony of the crew laying down snow while wearing sunglasses saying: "Once more, our long-suffering team are laying down snow whilst wearing sunglasses. And our cast can look sweaty-chic in those five layers of winter clothing," reports Devon Live.

"The mood is FANTASTIC on set, however, as our team are about to film an INCREDIBLE new Christmas story!

"There is just so much to tell about this year's festive drama... but all we can say right now is that there are distant troubles, wild celebrations, new beginnings, sad reunions... and a few sore heads!

"We just can't WAIT to show you this one. Call the Midwife returns with a new Christmas Special, and Series 15 in 2026."

Fans of the period drama were quick to share their excitement on the show's return as they took to the comments, with one person writing: "Super excited. The Christmas specials just make Christmas so much better."

A second added: "The best news, the best series", while a third echoed: "Best news I've heard all week!"

However, Call the Midwife fans pointed out Judy Parfitt was not featured in the photo and questioned if her character has been written out of the show.

Judy, 89, has played Sister Monica Joan since the show launched in 2012.

"Where is Sister Monica Joan?", asked one person while another replied: "That's what I'm worried about."

A third added: "I was thinking that myself..

"WHERE IS SISTER MONICA JOAN? ? ? ? ? ? DONT SCARE ME LIKE THIS", stated another.

Call The Midwife is available on BBC iPlayer