Call the Midwife Star Reveals Desire for Damehood as Cast Tease Much-Anticipated 2025 Christmas Special

As “Call the Midwife” gears up for its highly anticipated Christmas special in 2025, the beloved cast members Judy Parfitt and Helen George reflect on more than a decade of working together at Nonnatus House, sharing heartfelt insights about their long-standing friendship, fame, and festive traditions. For Parfitt, in particular, this festive season brings a personal aspiration to light: she has revealed that she would love to receive a damehood in recognition of her extraordinary career and contributions to the arts.

The 2025 Christmas special is set to be another poignant and exciting addition to the much-loved series, which has become a staple of British television since its debut in 2012. As the show continues to captivate audiences with its heartwarming stories and powerful performances, both Parfitt and George open up about their experiences on the show, and what it’s like to be a part of such a cherished institution.

Judy Parfitt: A Long and Distinguished Career

Judy Parfitt, who has portrayed the formidable Sister Monica Joan since the very first episode of Call the Midwife, has established herself as one of the UK’s most respected and seasoned actresses. With a career spanning decades across television, film, and theatre, Parfitt is known for her commanding presence and ability to portray deeply complex characters.

While discussing her illustrious career, the 81-year-old star shared her aspirations for the future, joking that one of her dreams is to receive a damehood from the British monarchy. “I would love to be given a damehood. It’s something I think about often,” Parfitt revealed. “I have spent my whole life working in the arts and serving the theatre community, and it would be a wonderful acknowledgment of all the hard work.”

Her career has indeed been one marked by excellence, earning her widespread recognition for her roles in dramas like The White Queen, Upstairs Downstairs, and The Girl. However, it is her role as Sister Monica Joan that has cemented her place in the hearts of viewers worldwide. Despite her character’s frail and eccentric exterior, Parfitt brings a sharp wit and immense depth to the role, making Sister Monica Joan one of the series’ most beloved characters.

Helen George: A New Mother and an Iconic Role

Helen George, who plays Nurse Trixie Franklin, has become another standout star on the show. Over the years, Trixie has grown from a young and naive nurse into a confident and compassionate woman, and George’s performance has earned her widespread admiration. As a new mother in real life, George has found herself relating to her character more than ever before.

The actress gave birth to her first child in 2020, and the experience has deepened her understanding of the maternal roles she portrays on screen. “Becoming a mother myself has made me appreciate the maternal instincts of the characters I play even more,” said George. “The way Trixie navigates love, life, and friendship has changed over the years, and I think it resonates with so many people.”

George also noted how much of a privilege it has been to be a part of a show like Call the Midwife. “I feel incredibly lucky to be a part of something that has such a deep impact on people’s lives. It’s a gift, really,” she added. “The camaraderie between the cast is one of the best parts of being on this show. We’ve all grown so close over the years.”

A Decade of Friendship and Festive Traditions

The enduring friendship between Parfitt and George is another heartwarming element of the show’s behind-the-scenes dynamic. Both actresses speak fondly of their time together on set, where they’ve not only forged professional bonds but also personal ones. Their relationship has grown over the years, and their shared love for the holiday season has become an important tradition both on and off-screen.

For the upcoming 2025 Christmas special, the cast teased that viewers could expect more emotional moments, festive cheer, and, of course, the signature drama that fans have come to love. The holiday specials are known for pulling at the heartstrings, and this year will be no exception. “There’s always something so magical about the Christmas episodes,” said Parfitt. “They bring all the characters together, and we really get to see their hearts in ways we don’t always get to during the rest of the year. It’s about family, community, and love.”

Helen George also touched on the show’s ability to keep fans engaged for over a decade. “We have such loyal fans, and they’ve stuck with us through the years. I think that’s why we all put so much into the Christmas special—because we want to give our audience something truly special.”

Looking Ahead: A New Chapter for the Cast

As Call the Midwife heads into its 2025 special and beyond, both Parfitt and George have expressed excitement about the future of the show. While the long-running series has been a fixture in British television, there is always room for growth and fresh challenges.

The next phase for the cast may bring new opportunities for both characters and actors alike. For Parfitt, the desire for recognition in the form of a damehood reflects the culmination of a long career of dedication and passion. As for George, her journey as a new mother and iconic television star continues to inspire millions.

As the Call the Midwife team celebrates the Christmas season, they look forward to more moments of heart, warmth, and joy. Whether it’s the pursuit of a damehood or the unbreakable bonds of friendship, the upcoming 2025 Christmas special promises to deliver more of what viewers have come to love about this enduring show: a deep sense of connection, compassion, and celebration of life’s most precious moments.