A CALL the Midwife star has opened up about the heartbreaking time his wife nearly lost her life.
The BBC star revealed that his wife was left “fighting for her life” after she was diagnosed with a life-threatening illness.
Stephen McGann, who has played Dr Patrick Turner on BBC One's Call the Midwife for over a decade, has bravely disclosed how his wife, Heidi Thomas, was in a terrifying health battle.
The 60-year-old actor has been married to his wife - who is the writer of the hit show - since 1990 but was left fearing for her life and left with the prospect of becoming a widower after became ill with sepsis.
In an interview with Saga Exceptional Magazine for its December issue, the BBC star relived the gut-wrenching moment.
Kylie Jenner goes braless in mesh catsuit for new snaps on New Year's Eve
Stephen revealed: “When Heidi was suddenly struck down with a constricted bowel and advanced sepsis, fighting for her life.
“The love of my life was nearly taken away, and like Scrooge watching Marley’s ghost, I was shown an alternative world.
“I walked the walk of a potential widower with a young child, and then she came back to me.”
Stephen thanked the NHS for the support and care they gave his family during the difficult time, claiming them as the real inspiration for Call the Midwife.
The TV star reminisced: “In a spiritual sense, that’s when Call the Midwife was born.
“The NHS saved my life as a child and Heidi’s life. It’s personal to me.”
Stephen’s character has been on the show since it first aired.
Poplar's local physician, Dr Turner, works with the midwives and nurses to help deliver babies and attend to other birthing issues.
During season two of the show, the widower fell in love with Shelagh, a nun from Nonnatus House house, played by Laura Main.
At first, Shelagh’s vows seemed to be getting in the way of their relationship, but eventually, she found a resolution by leaving the convent and accepting his marriage proposal.
Stacey Solomon says her life a 'mess' as she makes New Year's resolution
The TV couple have become a staple on the series, alongside Dr Turner’s son Timothy Turner, portrayed by Max Macmillan and their other kids.
Call the Midwife will make a comeback for a special episode on Christmas Day.
