Drama Call The Midwife, which chronicles the lives of Nonnatus House's midwives, has been a favourite among BBC viewers for over a decade. Over the years, the series has showcased some remarkable actors, though we've unfortunately had to bid farewell to several.

The nostalgic programme first aired in 2012 and continues to captivate audiences more than 14 series later, with a second Christmas special on the way. The BBC drama is set to return with two new festive episodes on Christmas Day and Boxing Day, featuring an exciting overseas plot as the nuns and nurses undertake a rescue mission, reports the Mirror.

The episode will transport viewers back to 1971, beginning with Fred (Cliff Parisi) and Violet Buckle (Annabelle Apsion) departing Poplar, East London, to spend Christmas in Hong Kong with her son, Derek (Nicholas Atkinson).

While fans of Call the Midwife won't have to wait much longer for the popular series to return to our screens, let's take a moment to remember the stars of the show who are sadly no longer with us.

Ronald took on the role of Philip Worth in the popular series, playing the husband of Jennifer Worth, portrayed by Vanessa Redgrave.

The actor also featured in Doctor Who and The Crown before his unfortunate passing in February 2021 at the age of 80.

His agent confirmed that he "passed away peacefully surrounded by his wife and family". Ronald was wed to Lans Traverse since 1964 and was a proud father to two children.

His daughter Rachel pursued acting and Ronald had the opportunity to share the screen with her in an episode of Midsomer Murders.

Clare was known for her role as Mrs Torpy, tragically passed away at the tender age of 48 due to an asthma attack.

The actress was also recognised for her roles in Holby City and the CBBC series Tracy Beaker Returns

She was sadly discovered deceased in her home in 2014, with her representative confirming the heartbreaking news in a statement: "It is with huge sadness that we have to report the death of our beloved friend and client Clare Cathcart.

"Clare was brilliant, fearless, and funny; a wonderful actor who we are immensely proud to have represented."

The statement further read: "Without her razor-sharp wit and glorious laugh the world will seem a darker place. We will miss her enormously."

Jane won over audiences with her portrayal of Nurse Barrington, sadly passed away at the age of 53. Throughout her career, she also had roles in Broadchurch, Casualty and EastEnders.

Her agent confirmed her passing in 2023 with a statement that read: "It is with profound sadness we must announce the passing of Jane Whittenshaw, a much-loved and highly respected client of over 30 years. She slipped away peacefully on Saturday last, with her husband, Hugh, best friend, Rebecca, and carers at her side.

" As well as an esteemed client, Jane was a dear friend, who was generous to a fault and great fun to be around. She was an immensely talented actor and a voice superstar, who leaves an extraordinary legacy of over 500 radio plays, courtesy of multiple stints on the BBC Radio Rep and many independent productions.

"She was a true professional, an absolute joy to work with and loved by all who did so. We offer our sincerest condolences to Hugh and the family."

Warren was known for his portrayal of John Lacey in Call The Midwife, he sadly died in 2014 at the age of 67.

His role as John in the show's second series is well-remembered, but he also gained recognition for his performances in Stanley Kubrick's A Clockwork Orange and the television series Dalziel and Pascoe.

Upon his death, Call the Midwife paid homage to the actor on social media, posting: "Saddened to hear of the death of wonderful Warren Clarke. Condolences to his family, from all at #callthemidwife xx".

Kev was a crew member on the show, tragically died in 2022. He served as a standby rigger in Call the Midwife's camera and electrical department from 2020 until his untimely death in 2022.

In honour of his memory, an episode of Call the Midwife was dedicated to Kev, featuring a tribute that read: "In memory of Kev Corbishley. 1965-2022."

The show further expressed their loss, stating he was "a dearly loved member of our crew who died very recently. He will be missed."

Call the Midwife is available to watch on BBC iPlayer.