Call The Midwife Is BBC One's Most Successful New Drama Series In A Decade – TVWise

Ratings hit Call The Midwife, which has already been renewed for a second season, aired its season finale last night and became BBC One’s most successful new drama series in ten years. Last nights episode drew in 9.2 million viewers and, over the course of the show’s first season, Call The Midwife averaged 8.7 million viewers and a 29.6% share.
The series is based on the memoirs of Jennifer Worth, who was a district midwife in London’s east end during the 1950’s. and stars Jessica Raine, Jenny Agutter, Pam Ferris, Miranda Hart, Judy Parfitt, Helen George, Bryony Hannah, Laura Main and Cliff Parisi.
Speaking of the success of the series, Danny Cohen, Controller of BBC One, said, “Heidi Thomas and Neal Street have brought a new kind of grit and risk to period drama. It’s been wonderful to see viewers respond so warmly – and in such large numbers – to this world of babies, nuns, and extraordinary women.”
While Pippa Harris, Executive Producer for Neal Street Productions, commented: “We’ve been thrilled and overwhelmed by the success of Call The Midwife. It’s fantastic that the series has been embraced so warmly by millions of viewers, and that the show’s blend of heartfelt drama and humour has struck a chord with so many. It’s a much deserved tribute to Jennifer Worth and I’m only sorry that she isn’t with us today to share the joy. I know she would be delighted.”
The second season of Call The Midwife will have a longer run of 8 episodes. Production on the show’s second season is slated to commence later this year.