Call the Midwife Universe Expands: WWII Prequel Series Set to Premiere in 2026, Delving into Nonnatus House Origins Amid the Blitz

By Entertainment Desk January 14, 2026

In a major development for one of Britain’s most cherished period dramas, the Call the Midwife world is expanding with a highly anticipated prequel series set during World War II. Announced by the BBC and Neal Street Productions, this new chapter will transport viewers back to Poplar in London’s East End, focusing on the early days of the iconic Nonnatus House community as bombs rain down during the devastating Blitz.

The prequel, which does not yet have an official title, is slated to debut in 2026—potentially even claiming a prime Christmas Day slot, replacing the traditional festive special from the main series. Creator and showrunner Heidi Thomas has long expressed a desire to explore the deeper past of these beloved characters, revealing the wartime experiences that forged their compassion, resilience, and dedication to midwifery and nursing.

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The story promises an intimate portrayal of life in war-torn Poplar, where fear, hardship, and air-raid sirens coexist with the miracle of new births. Midwives and nuns at Nonnatus House will continue their vital work delivering babies under blackout conditions, navigating rationing, evacuations, and the constant threat of Luftwaffe bombings. The series will highlight how the community persevered, blending heartwarming moments of joy and hope with the stark realities of wartime loss and survival.

A key draw for fans is the appearance of familiar characters in their younger forms. While the prequel features a fresh cast portraying these earlier versions, it draws directly from the established ensemble. Expect origins for figures like Sister Julienne (originally played by Jenny Agutter), Sister Monica Joan (Judy Parfitt), and Trixie Aylward (Helen George), alongside others such as Shelagh Turner (Laura Main). These revelations will offer deeper insight into the personal histories that shaped the compassionate heroes audiences have followed for over a decade.

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The announcement came alongside confirmation of production on the main series’ 15th season (set in 1971 and airing from early 2026) and a separate feature film set in 1972 overseas, featuring the current cast. Executive producer Pippa Harris emphasized the excitement: the prequel allows exploration of how Nonnatus House became the beacon of care it is known as, rooted in the trials of the 1939–1945 era.

Historical accuracy remains a hallmark, much like the original series inspired by Jennifer Worth’s memoirs. The prequel will incorporate real events from the Blitz—such as the relentless bombings of 1940–1941 that destroyed swathes of the East End—while weaving in emotional, character-driven narratives. Themes of community solidarity, women’s roles in wartime, and the enduring power of childbirth amid chaos are expected to resonate deeply.

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Fans have reacted with enthusiasm online, with many expressing eagerness to see how the nuns and midwives’ backstories unfold. The shift to a wartime setting adds layers of drama: forbidden romances under blackout curtains, heartbreaking losses from air raids, and triumphant deliveries that symbolize hope in darkness. As one producer noted, this is about “the roots of Nonnatus House,” showing the foundations of the compassion that defines the franchise.

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With filming expected to begin soon for the prequel, details on the new cast members portraying the younger versions remain under wraps, building anticipation. The BBC’s confidence is evident in plans for a high-profile launch, ensuring the beloved legacy continues to thrive.

This expansion underscores the enduring appeal of Call the Midwife—a blend of historical insight, emotional storytelling, and celebration of human resilience. As 2026 approaches, viewers can look forward to not just one, but multiple journeys into the heart of Poplar, proving that the stories of these remarkable women are far from over.