CBS’ Watson Casts What We Do In The Shadows Star As The Voice Of Sherlock Holmes

Watson will see a What We Do in the Shadows icon step into the role of Sherlock Holmes — with a twist. The CBS series sees Dr. John Watson (Morris Chestnut) attempting to move on as he heads his own clinic in the wake of Holmes’ death, though his past soon comes to haunt him. Alongside Morris, the Watson cast also features Rochelle Aytes as Watson’s ex-wife Mary Morstan and Ritchie Coster as the knowledgeable and well-connected former criminal Shinwell Johnson, while Randall Park takes on the role of iconic villain Moriarty.

As reported by TV Insider, Matt Berry of What We Do in the Shadows will provide the voice of Holmes in Watson‘s seventh episode. Showrunner Craig Sweeny teased the detective will haunt Watson through hallucinations, with Berry’s distinct voice being used to torment him in a highly vulnerable state. Sweeny explained:

Watson is not a reliable narrator in that moment and he’s experiencing something highly, highly subjective…

On the topic of whether Berry could someday play Holmes in the flesh, Sweeny was careful not to confirm anything, but added:

I couldn’t say that. I feel it might be violating the deal-making gods, if I said that. Certainly, he would be an amazing Sherlock. I don’t believe that we can guarantee that, but that would be our hope.

Even With An Unreliable Narrator, Watson’s Hallucinations Could Establish Major Characteristics

Sweeney previously discussed how often familiar characters and elements of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s tales will feature in Watson. While key Holmes acquaintances Inspector Lestrade and Irene Adler have been confirmed for future appearances, the showrunner has initially ruled out a physical appearance from the detective, even if Moriarty’s survival raises the possibility that Holmes may be alive. Rather than letting the detective pull the focus away from Watson and his team, the character will not appear in the immediate future.

Watson: What Is Moriarty’s Villainous Plan & How Holmes’ Clinic Could Be The Key To It

Watson’s first episode contains a big Moriarty twist that implies Watson and his clinic are central to the archvillain’s nefarious plans.

However, given that Holmes will make an appearance of sorts in Watson‘s episode 7 hallucination, it is clear that the showrunner has considered several aspects of the series’ version of the detective. While the method of how he will feature leaves room for alterations if necessary, this episode could provide some insight into what Holmes and Watson’s dynamic was in the lead-up to the fateful Reichenbach Falls encounter. As such, even though the detective may only appear in an unreliable form, the episode could lay the foundations for future encounters.

Our Take On Matt Berry’s Watson Casting

Berry Is Known For Leaving A Lasting Impression

While the how of Holmes’ Watson appearance may be ensnared in mystery, Berry’s involvement is sure to intrigue many. Even without Laszlo’s unique phrasings from What We Do in the Shadows, the actor has a distinct and memorable voice that is instantly recognizable. As such, it is clear that his role will leave an impression. Furthermore, should Berry’s Holmes be well-received and the series earn a renewal, Sweeny is obviously impressed with Berry’s work. A future physical appearance from Berry could be on the cards for Watson‘s future, even if it is unclear whether the detective survived or not.

Source: TV Insider