From the moment the credits rolled on “The Final Problem” six months ago, Sherlock fans have become fixated on the possibility of a fifth season involving Benedict Cumberbatch’s sleuth and his literal partner in crime, John Watson (Martin Freeman).
Much of that interest has been funnelled toward Steven Moffat (Doctor Who) and Mark Gatiss, co-showrunners on the hit BBC detective series, who have been badgered with all sorts of questions relating to Sherlock Holmes and his immediate future on the network. It all boils down to one thing, though: when, if ever, will Moffat and Gatiss welcome viewers back to 221B Baker Street?
Last we reported, Sherlock co-star Andrew Scott hinted that the as-yet-unconfirmed season 5 was around two years away due to complications with scheduling, though Gatiss believes Scott was a little conservative in his estimations. Speaking to Radio Times, the series showrunner, who also plays the part of Sherlock’s elder brother Mycroft, stated in no uncertain terms that the show’s latest instalment won’t premiere until 2020 – if it premieres at all. The game may still be afoot, but you’d be best settling in for the long haul.
When Radio Times cited Scott’s comments about a two-year break between seasons 4 and 5, here’s what Mark Gatiss had to say – fair warning, it’s not exactly what ardent Sherlock fans wanted to hear.
Oh, even longer I would say. We have no immediate plans. Everyone’s really very up for it; it’s just so very difficult to schedule everyone. It’s just so hard to get Benedict and Martin’s diaries to align. And there’s always the Fawlty Towers principle of just leaving it where it is.
But rest assured, Benedict Cumberbatch isn’t about to hang up the deerstalker hat just yet. The Avengers: Infinity War actor has expressed a desire to return to 221B Baker Street at some point in the future and sure enough, Gatiss wrapped up the interview by saying the ol’ “never say never” cliché.
I think in a few years time [if] we came back and said, ‘Shall we do another one?’ I think everyone would be very happy to. So never say never.
Sherlock season 5 is by no means a sure thing, but at the very least, fans can take solace in the fact that Mark Gatiss and the creative team remain invested in the series’ future. The modern-day reinvention has always moved along at a glacial pace, but what are your thoughts on a potential premiere in 2020? Let us know in the usual place!
