Stephen McGann says the 'Call the Midwife' team feel a "responsibility" to give viewers some normality.
Stephen McGann
The BBC period drama will be returning for its annual Christmas special this year, and the 57-year-old actor - who plays Doctor Patrick Turner on the show - admitted the cast and crew are "overwhelmed" by the excitement surrounding the episode.
Appearing on ITV's 'Lorraine' on Thursday (15.10.20), he said: "We’ve been overwhelmed by the number of people who have contacted us just at their relief that something was still going to be the same.
“And I think as actors we underestimated that and it was humbling. We’ve been reminded that, to other people, we’re a part of that pattern of Christmas and the festival.
“It’s a responsibility and one we’re proud to shoulder, and the atmosphere on set, the morale is very good.
"We’re working under restrictions as we all are but things are good and we’ve got a good attitude towards it and we remember what it’s all for in the end.”
He was joined for the interview by creator Heidi Thomas, who admitted the festive special is "for the audience".
She added: "Yeah, it’s all for the audience and our fans and as Steve said something that’s the same at Christmas!
"It ruins our Christmas every year because we get so nervous but it’s a sacrifice we’re willing to make!”
The cast and crew started filming the episode in August after a long delay due to the coronavirus pandemic.
A synopsis for the episode reads: "This year’s Christmas Special is set in December 1965. Everyone at Nonnatus House is looking forward to traditional celebrations with all the trimmings, but nothing goes quite to plan.
"Sister Monica Joan is rushed to hospital, and Trixie is incensed to receive a subscription to a Marriage Bureau as a Christmas gift.
“Meanwhile, a surprise reunion for Shelagh involves her in a deeply moving birth, and the Circus arrives in Poplar, bringing new friendships, new experiences, and an exciting adventure for Nurse Crane.”