Call The Midwife star Laura Main's life off-screen - from famous ex to surprise BBC role

Angie Quinn
·3-min read

Actress Laura Main has been a shining star in Call the Midwife since its inception in 2012, and first graced the popular show as Sister Bernadette before re-evaluating her religious calling in the second season.

Viewers of the BBC period drama will remember Sister Bernadette's brave choice to leave the St. Raymond Nonnatus order and marry Dr. Patrick Turner (portrayed by Stephen McGann) in touching scenes.

Now known as Shelagh Turner, she is not only a nurse but also a devoted mother to Timothy, Angela, May, and Teddy. The beloved family resides in a snug home, providing medical assistance to the residents of Poplar.

However, beyond the harsh realities of the 1970s East End, the much-admired actress Laura has also made her mark on stage and in other well-liked television programmes.

Call the Midwife: Shelagh Turner is played by actress Laura Main.
Call the Midwife Shelagh Turner was originally a nun when the character was introduced in 2012 -Credit:BBC

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While Laura is candid about her career as an actress, the Scottish star prefers to keep her personal life separate from the sparkle and spectacle of the entertainment industry. Here's what we know about her life away from the camera.

Born in Aberdeen, Scotland, Laura has two older sisters. She studied history at the University of Aberdeen before following her love for drama to the Webber Douglas Academy of Dramatic Art in London.

The TV darling began her acting journey at the tender age of 14, playing the lead role in Annie at the Phoenix Youth Theatre, followed by a role in The Sound of Music at 15. Laura has also showcased her talent on stage in several productions with The Royal Shakespeare Company.

In 2017, she was cast as Princess Fiona in the second UK tour of Shrek The Musical. Last year, she took on a leading role in Steel Magnolias alongside former EastEnders actress Lucy Speed and current Queen Vic landlady Harriet Thorpe who portrays Elaine Peacock in the show.

CTM
Call the Midwife star Laura Main tends to keep her private life out of the public eye -Credit:Chris Radburn/PA

On television, Laura's first credited role was in The Forsyte Saga in 2003, and a year later she portrayed Jaynie Cresswell in the series Monarch of the Glen.

In 2007, Laura played Julia Mason in the BBC medical drama Holby City before taking on the role of Deirdre Hunter in 2011. She has also featured in other medical dramas including BBC's Doctors as Kate Wilkinson in 2016, and Amanda Luckhurst in 2011.

In 2012, Laura made her debut in Call the Midwife as a nun, and fans have loved watching her character develop over the past 13 years.

Alongside starring in Call the Midwife, Laura also provides the voice for the character of Pak Choi in the CBeebies series Roots and Fruits, a role she has held since 2022.

Away from the spotlight, Laura prefers to keep her personal life under wraps. However, it's been reported that the star is not married - but previously had a relationship with theatre actor Stephen McGlynn between 2012 and 2017.

Laura Main as Sister Bernadette in Call the Midwife
Laura Main as Sister Bernadette in Call the Midwife -Credit:BBC/Neal Street Productions

They reportedly met while they were performing in a production of Rodgers & Hammerstein's musical, State Fair. Unfortunately, the couple split after five years of romance and she has yet to confirm another relationship.

At the time, she revealed to the Sunday Post: "If anyone were to look on the internet, they would think I was still in a relationship, but let's just say I am now single."

Laura seems to enjoy a close-knit family life, as evidenced by the occasional glimpses into her world beyond playing Shelagh Turner, which she shares with her Instagram followers.

In October 2021, she participated in the Archie's Hill Challenge with her sister, nephew, and niece, posting a celebratory selfie after completing the challenge.

Laura is actively gracing screens as Shelagh Turner in the 14th season of Call the Midwife, which is currently broadcast every Sunday at 8pm on BBC One

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