Daniel Laurie, aged 28, has become a familiar face to fans of the beloved BBC drama Call The Midwife, where he plays the gentle and endearing Reggie Jackson. His character first appeared in a touching storyline in which Reggie is left orphaned following the death of his mother. He is later taken in by his cousin Fred Buckle, portrayed by Cliff Parisi, and Fred’s wife Violet, played by Annabelle Apsion.
Reggie was subsequently placed in the Glasshouse Trust, a care home designed to support young adults with disabilities. Despite living there, he regularly returns to Poplar throughout the series, reuniting with his friends and family. Notably, he shares a strong friendship with Cyril Robinson, brought to life by actor Zephryn Taitte.
Reggie has featured in several episodes of the latest season, which is due to wrap up next weekend. With his character growing in popularity, many viewers are now curious to learn more about Daniel Laurie beyond the screen.
Daniel’s background is steeped in show business. His father was the late Leslie Grantham, a well-known British actor remembered by millions for his iconic role as ‘Dirty Den’ – Dennis Watts – on the long-running soap EastEnders. Leslie passed away in 2018, but his legacy in British television remains significant.
Daniel’s mother, Jane Laurie, also worked in the industry, particularly during the 1980s. She appeared in various films and television series, including The Return of the Soldier (1982), The Last Place on Earth (1985), and Foreign Body (1986). Now 70, she has largely stepped away from the spotlight.
Jane once opened up about their family in an interview with the Daily Mail in 2006, where she reflected on Leslie’s devotion as a father. Speaking about Daniel, who has Down’s syndrome, she recalled a particularly moving moment shortly after his birth. “When he was just a few days old, Leslie looked down at the baby and said: ‘You know, there are some hard things in life, but this isn’t one of them.’”
Daniel’s presence on Call The Midwife has brought warmth and authenticity to the series, and his off-screen story only deepens the admiration fans have for him. As the show continues to touch hearts across the UK, Daniel’s own journey as an actor and as a person continues to inspire.