In one of British television’s most heartwarming behind-the-scenes revelations, fans have recently discovered that Call The Midwife star Daniel Laurie has an incredible showbiz connection — he is the son of none other than EastEnders legend Leslie Grantham, the man who famously brought to life one of soap history’s most unforgettable characters: “Dirty” Den Watts. The revelation has left fans across generations both surprised and deeply moved, connecting two of Britain’s most beloved shows — EastEnders and Call The Midwife — through one remarkable family legacy.

Daniel Laurie, who portrays the sweet-natured and kind-hearted Reggie Jackson in Call The Midwife, has been a fan favorite since his debut. His performance radiates warmth, innocence, and depth, bringing authenticity and humanity to a character who has captured the audience’s hearts. Many viewers know him as the cheerful soul who helps bring laughter and compassion to Poplar’s tight-knit community, but few knew about his powerful connection to British television history. The discovery that Daniel is Leslie Grantham’s son adds a fascinating layer to his story — a bridge between the gritty streets of Albert Square and the compassionate heart of Nonnatus House.

Leslie Grantham, who passed away in 2018, remains a towering figure in the world of British soap operas. His portrayal of Den Watts on EastEnders from 1985 to 1989, and again from 2003 to 2005, defined an era of television drama. “Dirty Den” was complex, charismatic, and ruthless — a man capable of charm and cruelty in equal measure. His infamous scenes, including the legendary moment when he handed divorce papers to Angie with the line “Happy Christmas, Ange!”, have become part of British pop culture history. That single scene drew over 30 million viewers — still one of the most-watched moments in British television.

Knowing that the gentle, loving Reggie from Call The Midwife is played by the son of the man who portrayed one of soap’s most notorious bad boys feels almost poetic. Daniel Laurie’s soft-spoken sincerity contrasts beautifully with his father’s darkly magnetic on-screen persona, yet both share an undeniable presence that draws audiences in. Where Leslie’s performances thrived on tension and moral conflict, Daniel’s work glows with empathy, humor, and quiet strength — two very different actors, yet both with an instinctive understanding of emotion and character.

Born in 1995, Daniel grew up surrounded by creativity. Though he has Down’s syndrome, he has never let that define or limit him. Instead, he has used his talent, determination, and genuine love for performance to carve out a respected career of his own. His breakout role in Call The Midwife not only won the hearts of fans but also marked an important moment for representation in mainstream television. Through his portrayal of Reggie, Daniel has helped normalize disability representation in a way that feels authentic, dignified, and moving. His presence on the show isn’t just symbolic — it’s a vital part of Call The Midwife’s spirit of compassion and inclusion.

Daniel’s mother, Jane Laurie, raised him largely away from the spotlight, focusing on giving him stability and space to grow at his own pace. Unlike his father’s turbulent life, Daniel’s path has been marked by calm dedication and joy in his work. While Leslie Grantham’s off-screen life was often filled with controversy, Daniel’s has been about connection, love, and positivity — values that shine through every time he appears on screen.

For many fans, learning about this father-son link has been emotional. Social media has been filled with touching messages from viewers expressing admiration for Daniel’s achievements and respect for the legacy he continues, in his own unique way. “To think that Dirty Den’s son is Reggie from Call The Midwife — what an incredible story!” one fan tweeted. Another wrote, “Daniel Laurie is an inspiration. His father was a legend, but Daniel’s kindness and authenticity make him one too.” The sentiment is shared widely: both men, in their vastly different ways, have made an indelible mark on British television.

What makes this connection even more fascinating is how symbolic it feels. EastEnders and Call The Midwife, though very different in tone, both explore working-class life in London — its struggles, resilience, and heart. Leslie Grantham’s Den Watts walked the tough streets of Walford, a man shaped by survival and sin, while Daniel Laurie’s Reggie Jackson walks the cobbled lanes of Poplar, spreading love, laughter, and innocence. The father embodied the darkness of post-war Britain’s moral complexity, and the son represents the light of compassion and community that defines post-war recovery. In that contrast, there’s something deeply poetic — as if, through his art, Daniel is carrying forward a new kind of legacy: one built on hope instead of heartbreak.

Daniel’s co-stars on Call The Midwife have often spoken about his professionalism, humor, and warmth on set. He’s been praised for his natural acting style and for the depth he brings to Reggie, who has become an integral part of the show’s emotional core. Viewers have followed Reggie’s journey with affection, from his arrival at Nonnatus House after the death of his mother to his evolving independence and loving relationships with characters like Fred Buckle and Violet. Daniel’s performances remind audiences of what Call The Midwife does best — showing the quiet heroism of ordinary people living with dignity and kindness.