The season finale of Call the Midwife sees Miss Higgins (Georgie Glen) receive an unexpected visitor, Sister Monica Joan (Judy Parfitt) ruffle feathers, and Poplar vote for its Mother of the Year.
Miss Higgins’ long-lost son
Miss Higgins, the receptionist at Dr Turner’s (Stephen McGann) surgery, receives a visit from a woman who reveals herself to be the wife of Miss Higgins’ long-lost son, Victor. Miss Higgins gave birth to Victor in India when she was 21 years old and was forced to put him up for adoption. Victor, who is in London for two weeks, is keen to meet his birth mother and buys flowers for the visit. The two share a warm hug and catch up on the missing years, with Victor revealing that he also has a grandson, Harry, who is training to be a dentist.
Victor’s illness
However, the reunion is short-lived as Victor has a kidney disease and soon falls ill. Miss Higgins looks after him at her house, glad to be able to mother him at last. Victor’s wife, Mariam, and Miss Higgins’ friend, Phyllis, leave the two to talk. But as they chat over tea and cakes, Victor’s health deteriorates and he is rushed to see Dr Turner.
Poplar’s Mother of the Year
Meanwhile, it’s the Poplar Mother of the Year competition at St Oswald’s Hall. Reggie, Violet’s second cousin and surrogate son, is centre stage and describes how his miniature garden represents mothers. The children give heartfelt speeches about their mothers, and Sister Julienne wins the award for her hard work and dedication.
Sister Monica Joan
Sister Monica Joan, who has been a part of Call the Midwife since the first episode, ruffles feathers. A quarrel breaks out between her and Sister Veronica, with lukewarm towels being flung and heated words exchanged.
Joyce’s secret
Pupil midwife Joyce (Renee Bailey), who joined in season 10, comes clean about her past. She is confronted by Rosalind (Natalie Quarry), who sees her salary envelope with Sylvester, and is forced to reveal that her real name is Claudine Warren and that Sylvester is her abusive husband. The Nonnatus House colleagues are supportive, and Sister Julienne tells her that her job is safe.
Airdate and time
The finale of season 13 of Call the Midwife airs on PBS on Sunday, May 5, at 8:00 PM.