Steven Moffat, co-creator and co-writer of the BBC's hit detective drama Sherlock, has hinted at a potential fifth series, suggesting a new direction with a 'middle-aged' story. Speaking on the Half the Picture podcast, Moffat expressed his desire to revisit the show, nearly a decade after it went on hiatus.
The series, a contemporary reimagining of Arthur Conan Doyle's classic stories, starred Benedict Cumberbatch as Sherlock Holmes and Martin Freeman as Dr. John Watson. It aired four three-episode series and a standalone special, The Abominable Bride, in 2016 before concluding with The Final Problem in 2017.
Moffat's Vision for a Middle-Aged Sherlock
Moffat noted that the actors are now the 'normal age' for the characters, stating, 'I'd quite like to revisit it simply because they would now - our two leads - be the normal age for Sherlock Holmes and Dr Watson.' He added, 'I'd quite like to see them as their more middle-aged, settled versions.'
He emphasized that there are plenty of stories left to adapt, referencing the 60 original Conan Doyle stories, of which the show has only covered 13 or 14. 'There's loads more you could do with Sherlock,' Moffat said.
Challenges to a Revival
Despite Moffat's enthusiasm, a revival faces significant hurdles. In June 2025, co-creator Mark Gatiss revealed that both Cumberbatch and Freeman 'didn't want to do any more' episodes, as reported by RadioTimes. This suggests that any potential return would require convincing the lead actors to reprise their roles.
Moffat reflected on the show's legacy, calling it 'extraordinary' and 'cracking,' and expressed pride in the series. He described the period of working on Sherlock alongside his tenure as showrunner for Doctor Who as a 'manic time' when he never stopped working.
Streaming Availability
Sherlock originally aired on BBC One and is currently available to stream free on BBC iPlayer. Fans can revisit all four series and the special while hoping for a potential return.
