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The cast and crew of Call the Midwife have survived their fair share of on-screen emergencies over the years, but this time the drama unfolded behind the scenes. It has been revealed that the upcoming Christmas specials, set to air on Christmas Day and Boxing Day on BBC One, were almost thrown into chaos after a force 10 typhoon hit Hong Kong during filming.
The much-loved period drama travelled to the bustling Asian city earlier this year to shoot several major storylines connected to the show's fictional Nonnatus House mission. But production was suddenly halted when a typhoon warning was issued, forcing cast and crew to remain inside their hotel rooms for almost 48 hours.
While the unexpected lockdown caused delays and widespread concern, the production team managed to safely continue filming once the storm had settled, and fans can now look forward to not one but two brand-new Christmas episodes featuring one of the most ambitious storylines the show has attempted.
This year’s festive specials follow half of the medics from Nonnatus House as they embark on an urgent mission to Hong Kong after the mission building collapses, resulting in multiple fatalities. The collapse leaves dozens of vulnerable people, including expectant mothers and young orphans, without shelter or medical support, prompting Sister Julienne and her team to travel thousands of miles to help.
The scenes filmed in Hong Kong will form the heart of the two-part Christmas storyline, combining emotional drama with large-scale set pieces rarely seen in the series.
Danger in the streets: gun-toting gangsters and a triad threat
In addition to the structural collapse, viewers can expect a level of danger unlike anything the nuns have encountered before. During the mission, several Nonnatus House favourites find themselves face-to-face with gun-toting gangsters, bringing a surprising twist to the usually gentle Christmas episodes.
Trixie and Geoffrey come to Mr Fischer’s aid after finding him in the snow – Credit: BBC
Tensions rise even further when a triad leader steals the keys to the new mission building secured by the nuns. With their only safe haven suddenly inaccessible, the midwives must navigate both cultural differences and criminal threats to continue providing care, all while racing against the clock to protect the vulnerable mothers and children who depend on them.
While Call the Midwife is known for balancing heartwarming moments with emotional depth, this year’s festive episodes promise an even more intense and cinematic feel. Filming in Hong Kong introduced logistical challenges, unpredictable weather, and a completely new backdrop for the show’s loyal fans.
Despite the real-life typhoon disruption, executive producers have confirmed that the two episodes have been completed in full, and will deliver a gripping, emotional finale to 2025’s television calendar.
After over a decade on air, Call the Midwife remains one of BBC One’s most-watched Christmas offerings, with millions of viewers tuning in each year. This year, audiences will be gifted a double helping, making it one of the biggest festive TV events of the season.
With storms, gangsters, international missions, and the ever-present compassion of the Nonnatus House team, this year’s specials are shaping up to be unforgettable.
