Miriam Margolyes Quits Call the Midwife After Six Years
Veteran actress Miriam Margolyes has officially bid farewell to BBC’s beloved period drama Call the Midwife. The 83-year-old star, famed for her blunt wit and versatile roles, stepped down from her role as the no-nonsense Mother Mildred. The reason? Her jam-packed schedule simply won’t allow her to continue.
Beloved Role and Fond Farewell
Margolyes joined the hit show in 2018, instantly making Mother Mildred her own with her sharp charm and candour. Although she last appeared in 2021, she’s stayed vocal about how much she loves the series’ heartfelt portrayal of 1950s East End life.
“There are considerable similarities. The directness Mother Mildred has is mine. I’m very like that,” Margolyes said, reflecting on her character. She also praised the show as a rare gem about “decent people doing decent things.”
Busy Schedule Means No Return
A source told the Daily Star: “She loved being part of the show because she absolutely adores it, but her packed schedule means she can’t continue. There are no plans for her to go back.”
What’s Next for Margolyes and the Show?
Beyond Call the Midwife, Margolyes has recently ventured into documentary work with BBC’s A New Australian Adventure, showing off her broad talents outside acting.
The drama itself is set to continue strong, with renewal confirmed through 2026. Helen George, who plays Trixie, recently noted that while the show’s roots are in Jennifer Worth’s 1950s-60s memoirs, its global popularity means it’s likely here to stay—for now at least.
Miriam Margolyes’ departure closes a chapter, but fans can expect plenty more drama, heart, and warmth from upcoming seasons of Call the Midwife.
