BBC Call The Midwife fans left in tears over ‘harrowing’ storyline

Viewers were left with their blood boiling (Image: BBC)

Fans of Call The Midwife were left seething and distressed over a “harrowing” plotline in the latest episode.

The much-loved BBC period drama returned on Sunday 25 January, featuring a challenging case where a woman was rescued from abuse.

The episode spotlighted Bogi Bondor as Agata Balassa, a victim trapped by a ruthless couple intent on forcing her to bear a child for them.

Rosalind, portrayed by Natalie Quarry, spotted burns on Agata’s arm, leading Nurse Trixie (Helen George) to intervene upon learning of her pregnancy.

The domestic situation took a grim turn when it was revealed that Agota had been subjected to imprisonment, torture, starvation, and rape at Nonnatus House.

Helen George plays Trixie (Image: BBC)

Viewers were left appalled, with one commenting: “This is harrowing.”

Another viewer lamented: “Sexual violence and modern day slavery how much more in our society now, compared to then. Yet it has always been here. The worst kind of abhorrent crime.”

One fan expressed their outrage, stating: “Oh this episode is making my blood boil. That couple are evil,” Another echoed similar sentiments, saying: “Absolutely disgusting vile couple. Need locking up,”

A viewer praised Agatha’s bravery, writing: “Agatha is so brave, the first step is one of the hardest, and to take it, takes real courage.”

The episode followed a modern day slavery and abuse storyline (Image: BBC)

Another fan commended the show’s approach, stating: “Call the Midwife never, ever shy away from telling difficult stories and complicated health conditions in the most sensitive way. It is so good that watching should be part of the curriculum.”

One viewer commented: “This is very handmaid’s tale but the scary thing is that it happens, even now.”

“Oh this is horrifying already,” echoed another.

The show also moved some to tears, with one fan sharing: “Just a wonderful show, I bubble every week.”

The episode was compared to The Handmaid’s Tale (Image: BBC)

Another chimed in: “The best programme ever ever ever, what an episode.”

Actress Bogi previously took to social media to express how honoured she was to portray such a hard-hitting storyline.

She wrote: “So so grateful for the trust that was put in me to bring this vulnerable young woman to life. Echoing voices like hers is what I live for.

“@delytht your guidance, patience and joy made it so much easier to tackle the heaviness of our story.

“A huge-huge thank you to all cast and crew @callthemidwife.official (I really wish I could tag u one by one) – being on set with you was truly one of the best experiences of my life.

Bogi Bondor guest-starred as a victim of abuse (Image: BBC)

“No words to express my gratitude to @jks.management for seeing something in me, taking me on, and always being there with whatever silly question I come up with:)

“And thank you to all my family and friends who will be there in front of the TV watching me do my thing. For your encouraging words, for telling me you’re proud of me, for being excited and telling your people – you know who you are!!!

“I can’t even explain what this opportunity meant for me. My heart is in a little knot but also wanting to burst.”

Viewers were left horrified by the harrowing storyline (Image: BBC)

Ahead of the new series, showrunner Heidi Thomas had shared: “This year, our team are involved with many tough and painful cases, including slavery, poverty, rabies, carbon monoxide poisoning, male breast cancer, child cruelty and lupus.

“But in Poplar, no-one is ever lost, or abandoned, or even allowed to be alone for very long. Love isn’t just the best medicine, it is medicine. And that’s the philosophy that’s kept us going all these years.

“Those legendary red cardigans enfold everyone. They wrap us up in something safe and warm, in a world where the winds can blow very cold indeed – whether it’s 1971, or 2025.”