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Helen George stands as one of Britain’s most cherished television talents. Best known for her long-running role as Trixie Franklin in Call the Midwife, George’s career and personal journey have kept her in the public eye for over a decade. In 2025, her name is trending once again, not only for her on-screen achievements but also for her resilience and openness about life’s challenges. As she returns to television after a brief hiatus, George’s story continues to inspire audiences across the UK.
Early Life and Path to Stardom
Born in Birmingham on 19 June 1984, Helen George was raised in Winchester, Hampshire. Her father, Neil Thomas, is a political science professor, while her mother, Margareth, works as a social worker. From a young age, George displayed a flair for the arts and athletics, training in ballet and even dreaming of managing Aston Villa Football Club.
Her passion for performance led her to the Royal Academy of Music in London, where she studied musical theatre. Shortly after graduating, she landed her first professional role in The Woman in White. George’s early career included singing backing vocals for Sir Elton John, performing at venues such as Wembley Arena and the Royal Albert Hall.
Breakthrough with Call the Midwife
Helen George’s defining role came in 2012 when she was cast as Trixie Franklin in the BBC’s Call the Midwife. The period drama quickly became a staple of Sunday night television, and George’s portrayal of the stylish, compassionate nurse won her widespread acclaim. Over the years, viewers have followed Trixie through storylines involving addiction, heartbreak, and triumph, cementing George’s place in British popular culture.
Her commitment to the role has seen her learn authentic 1950s medical techniques, including how to deliver babies, and she has spoken about the privilege of working alongside icons like Jenny Agutter and Pam Ferris.
Expanding Her Horizons: Stage and Reality TV
While Call the Midwife remains her signature work, George’s career has spanned stage and screen. She starred as Anna Leonowens in The King and I at the Dominion Theatre in London in 2024, earning praise for her vocal and dramatic range. George also appeared in game shows such as Celebrity Catchphrase and Richard Osman’s House of Games, delighting fans with her wit and warmth.
In 2025, she took on a new challenge: ITV’s Shark! Celebrity Infested Waters. The show saw George confront her lifelong fear of water by swimming with sharks in the Bahamas. She described the experience as “immense” and admitted to “ugly crying” on camera, highlighting her willingness to be vulnerable and authentic in the public eye.
Personal Life: Triumphs and Setbacks
Helen George’s personal life has often paralleled the drama of her on-screen roles. She was married to actor Oliver Boot from 2011 to 2015. In 2016, she began a relationship with her Call the Midwife co-star Jack Ashton. The couple welcomed two daughters, Wren Ivy in 2017 and Lark in 2021. During her first pregnancy, George was diagnosed with intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP), a condition affecting liver function. She has since become a patron of the ICP Support charity, raising awareness for others facing similar challenges.
In 2023, George and Ashton announced their separation after seven years together. Despite the split, they continue to co-parent their daughters, with George emphasising that her children remain her top priority.
A New Chapter: Love and Career in 2025
This year marks a period of renewal for George. She has found happiness with Dan Innes, a real estate entrepreneur, whom she met on the celebrity dating app Raya. The couple have been seen together on family holidays and outings, and George has shared glimpses of their relationship on social media.
Professionally, George is busier than ever. She recently moved into a new home, describing it as a “new chapter” in her life. She continues to film for Call the Midwife, with the show confirmed for its fifteenth series. Her Instagram post celebrating “15 years of joy, love and laughter” on set was met with an outpouring of support from fans.
Facing Fears and Embracing Change
George’s decision to participate in Shark! Celebrity Infested Waters was deeply personal. As a child, she developed aquaphobia after a traumatic experience at a swimming party. She has spoken candidly about the terror of being trapped underwater and how it shaped her relationship with swimming. By facing her fears on national television, George hopes to inspire others to confront their anxieties and embrace new experiences.
Her openness about mental health, motherhood, and personal growth has resonated with audiences. George’s authenticity, both on and off screen, has made her a role model for many.
Legacy and Impact
Helen George’s influence extends beyond television. She is celebrated for her advocacy work, particularly around maternal health and pregnancy complications. Her willingness to discuss her own struggles has helped destigmatise difficult conversations and provided comfort to countless women.
Her portrayal of Trixie Franklin has had a lasting impact on British television, with Call the Midwife remaining one of the BBC’s most beloved dramas. As the show enters its fifteenth year, George’s contribution to its success cannot be overstated.
Conclusion
With a new relationship, a thriving career, and a renewed sense of purpose, Helen George is poised for continued success. She remains a fixture on British television, a champion for maternal health, and an inspiration to fans of all ages. As she embraces new challenges and opportunities, George’s journey serves as a testament to resilience, talent, and the enduring power of authenticity.
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