Sherlock star Benedict Cumberbatch has revealed the one way he would return for season 5. The acclaimed series of the iconic English detective began in 2010, releasing three movie-length episodes in its debut season. Sherlock has three more seasons, with the latest episodes airing in 2017. However, the series had a reputation for considerably long gaps between seasons. Now, eight years have passed since the series last hit the BBC, but that has not stopped the rumors of Sherlock season 5 from swirling about.
Speaking with Variety, Cumberbatch revealed that his return for season 5 is predicated on the show being “better than it ever was.” He also recalled a fan event, where audiences expressed their want for more Sherlock. He told them that he was “not always going to do the same thing” and wanted to still “surprise” himself and his fan base. Check out the full quote below:
A lot of money. It would take it to be better than it ever was. You leave them or yourselves wanting more. There’s always that itch to scratch, but I think it would have to be the superlative version of what we’ve already achieved.
[Recalling a fan event] I went, ‘Guys, I know you really like “Sherlock,” but if you’re with me, I’m not going to always do the same thing. I’m not going to always be the Benedict that you expect. You might not like some of the stuff I do. I may be cute and cuddly to you at times, or ugly and untouchable. But I want to stretch myself and surprise myself and surprise you.’
What This Means For Sherlock Season 5
Sherlock’s Future Is Still Uncertain
Cumberbatch’s quote provides little hope for the prospect of Sherlock season 5. In December of last year, co-creator Steven Moffat said it would be “madness not to do” another installment of the detective series, because of the strong existing fan base. However, he didn’t reveal any active plans for another Sherlock season. On the other hand, both Cumberbatch and Martin Freeman have previously commented on the possibility and interest but never guaranteed the chances of a season 5.
In previous interviews, the creative team, including Moffat, repeatedly mentioned that the lack of season 5 development stemmed from Cumberbatch and Freeman’s busy schedule, as both stars have become in-demand actors since the series. Cumberbatch has made his stance clear about wanting to do a variety of projects, implying that the reprisal in his detective series role may not be his top priority. This is especially the case with the actor heavily invested in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, where he recently confirmed his involvement in Avengers: Secret Wars and the development of Doctor Stranger 3.
Our Take On Sherlock Season 5’s Likelihood
Sherlock May Have Lost Some Interest Over The Years
Sherlock does have a fairly significant fan base, though some of said fans may have fallen off over the past eight years. Though all the seasons of Sherlock are decently rated, Sherlock season 4, episode 3, “The Final Problem” was somewhat divisive among audiences. There are also other Sherlock projects, including Guy Ritchie’s TV series Young Sherlock, actively in the works, which may distract from the uncertain season 5 wait. That is, Sherlock could still return, but the series may be past its prime in terms of maximum audience interest.
Source: Variety
In this incarnation of Sherlock from creators Steven Moffat and Mark Gatiss, Benedict Cumberbatch and Martin Freeman assume the roles of Sherlock and Watson as they establish their partnership and begin solving strange mysteries throughout the U.K. and beyond. Set in a more 2010’s modern setting, Sherlock’s eccentric and complex nature is accentuated as he solves seemingly supernatural crimes with unparalleled intellect while struggling to connect with others on a human level. Meanwhile, Watson blogs the stories summarizing their cases while building a strained but caring friendship with his new partner.
- Release Date
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August 8, 2010
- Finale Year
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November 30, 2016
- Seasons
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4
- Story By
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Steven Moffat
- Directors
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Steven Moffat
- Showrunner
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Steven Moffat