Although I liked Matthew Aylward (Olly Rix) during his initial introduction in Call the Midwife season 10, his narrative in season 13 became not only irksome but also detrimental to Trixie (Helen George), which I find unacceptable.
With the confirmation of season 14 of Call the Midwife, curiosity abounds regarding the whereabouts of our characters upon the return of this enduring historical drama. Call the Midwife is situated in 1950s London, namely in the East End, where a cohort of nurse midwives operates, with each season addressing a distinct historical ailment of the era.
Matthew Aylward made his initial appearance in season 10, episode 1, as a barrister and property developer, accompanied by his pregnant wife, Fiona (Jo Herbert). Trixie assists Fiona in delivering a healthy baby boy, Jonathan, but is then afflicted with Acute Leukemia and passes away shortly thereafter.
Matthew and Trixie commence their romantic relationship in season 11 and wed in the season 12 finale. Throughout the most of his tenure on Call the Midwife, Matthew exhibited a commendable demeanor. Supportive, affectionate, and unexpectedly progressive (considering the period, temper expectations); in season 13, he undermines everything.
Matthew Aylward’s Return for Call the Midwife Season 14 is Unclear
In season 13, Matthew experiences tragedy. With his considerable family fortune and extensive experience as a barrister, a presumably lucrative profession, Matthew loses all his financial resources, resulting in the seizure of his possessions.
I am not an English heir engaged in philanthropy or managing numerous family enterprises, but if I were to inherit all that Matthew Aylward possessed, I believe I would manage to reserve sufficient funds for unforeseen circumstances. I am uncertain how one may entirely lose everything simultaneously.
He transitions from poverty to wealth, now reliant on his wife’s earnings as a midwife; the horror! He exemplifies liberal thought in 1950s London, not contemporary London. Typically a problem-solver, his confidence abruptly diminished, and when proud men experience a downfall, they often resort to aggression.
If a man you know suddenly exhibits rude behavior, inquire about the status of his football bets; he will likely either leave abruptly or become emotional. Regardless, you will obtain your answer.
In the penultimate episode of season 13, episode 7, Matthew abruptly declares his intention to relocate to fresh York City with Jonathan, as a fresh business opportunity awaits him there.
As an American, I appreciate when a foreign show eliminates a character by presenting a “business opportunity in America; you can succeed in America!” Kindly direct me to one of these promising “business opportunities” as well. I wish to purchase tickets for the Philadelphia Eagles.
Matthew presents Trixie with an ultimatum: accompany him to New York or remain behind.
Matthew presents Trixie with an ultimatum: accompany him to New York or remain behind. For a brief period, it appeared that Matthew would be departing from the ensemble of Call the Midwife characters, although in the season finale, it appeared that he had reconsidered the finality of his decision.
Given Rix’s absence in season 14 photographs and his recent casting in Casualty (as reported by Hello!), it is probable that he will not return for Call the Midwife season 14. Farewell, Matthew (not Rix, who is skilled, admirable, and pleasant).
Matthew Extremely Mismanaged His Relationship With Trixie
Despite Matthew’s shortcomings, my disappointment in his character development would likely be mitigated had he not ineptly navigated his challenges. All of his financial shortcomings render Matthew nearly unrecognizable. Despite the consistent and affectionate relationship he maintained with Trixie throughout Call the Midwife, he abruptly began to behave poorly.
Trixie’s white knight began to exhibit petulance, secrecy, anger, and rudeness, and due to his failure to communicate with Trixie, she remained entirely uninformed.
It appears we are expected to empathize with Matthew at this juncture. His confidence is undermined, leaving him uncertain of how to proceed, despite having known Trixie for some years by that time.
He can inform her about the situation and articulate his apprehensions. She is a diligent midwife, not an effete aristocrat incapable of comprehending a lack of wealth. Trixie has encountered far more severe situations than a man in need of employment.
Even more concerning is his demand to go for New York. That is not a rural occupation; it represents an entirely distinct existence across the Atlantic.
Matthew believes this is his method of resolution; yet, in truth, he is merely evading the issue.
Be realistic, Matthew. You either recognized that she would reject the offer, indicating a lack of genuine choice, or you were naive enough to believe she would disrupt her entire life for what amounts to a futile pursuit of additional funds, which is, at the at least, disrespectful to her intellect.
Matthew believes this is his method of resolution; yet, in truth, he is merely evading the issue.