Watson has already introduced the wrinkles that make its version of Moriarty unique. Unlike other Sherlock Holmes adaptations, this show does not even feature Holmes in any significant role. After all, it largely takes place after his death, leaving Watson (Morris Chestnut) to his own devices. With Watson leading a medical research facility, he is left to wrestle with both other unique cases and his own traumatic brain injury. All the while, he is the victim of extreme manipulation by Moriarty (Randall Park), who is not content to allow him to rest.
In an interview with ScreenRant at the Critics’ Choice Awards, Park explained just what makes his Moriarty differ from previous depictions. Park believes that his character is more subtle than in previous depictions, as he is both “surprising and unassuming“. He will appear many times in season 1, though “more in the second half“. Check out his full quote below:
Oh, yes. I’m popping in and out of the season. I recur on the show, more in the second half of the season. I think this version of Moriarity is, by design, a little more surprising and unassuming and someone who kind of blends in really well with the surroundings. I think that’s kind of the point of him and it makes him a little more dangerous in that way.
What The Moriarty Changes Mean For Watson
Watson Will Need To Keep On His Toes
Watson will be playing a very different role in this show. As the leading man, it is his responsibility to be the Great Detective. He is the chief medical investigator and the only one who can truly stop Moriarty. That is especially true, as Moriarty has secretly infiltrated Watson’s team through a secret agent. He is slowly gathering some rare genetic material, then secretly attempting to use them against his personal lab rat, Watson.
Most other medical procedurals have few true enemies outside incompetent administrators.
When it was first proposed to the public, Watson appeared to be the latest attempt to replicate the success of House. Instead, the show features a clear villain, who is working to undermine Watson’s humanitarian efforts. By featuring a subtle and cunning Moriarty, the show sets it apart from other medical dramas on TV. Most other medical procedurals have few true enemies outside incompetent administrators. This is a unique path. Watson‘s cast is filled with stars who can be both brilliant and unassuming, and taking that route allows for far more intrigue.
Our Take On Watson’s Moriarty Changes
Watson Is Already Twisting Established Lore
Moriarty is generally a subtle character, but he is rarely presented as “unassuming“. In the original books, he is arrogant, dangerous, and vaguely “reptilian“. In this show, however, he has a friendly face and rarely shies from smiles. He is certainly intelligent, but he is also an extremely non-traditional villain. The twist makes him feel unpredictable, which is perfect for a show about detective work and medical mysteries. Moriarty’s changed nature makes him the perfect antagonist for Watson. It will be interesting to see if he delves further into darkness in future episodes.
Watson
- Release Date
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January 26, 2025
- Showrunner
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Craig Sweeny
- Directors
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Larry Teng
- Writers
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Craig Sweeny
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Morris Chestnut
Dr. John Watson
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