Benedict Cumberbatch Shares His Main Reason for Returning in Sherlock Season 5

Benedict Cumberbatch, renowned for his role in the acclaimed series Sherlock, has recently shared insights regarding a potential return for a fifth season. Since its premiere in 2010, the show has captivated audiences with its unique adaptation of Arthur Conan Doyle’s iconic detective, delivering three film-length episodes in its inaugural season. Following a successful run that included three additional seasons, the latest episodes were aired in 2017. Notably, the series has been characterized by substantial gaps between seasons, and it has now been eight years since its last appearance on BBC, leading to ongoing speculation regarding the future of Sherlock.

In an interview with Variety, Cumberbatch expressed that any return for season 5 hinges on the show’s capacity to surpass its previous achievements. He also reflected on a fan event where attendees voiced their desire for more episodes. Cumberbatch emphasized his commitment to surprise both himself and the audience, stating that he is not interested in simply repeating past performances.

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.’

Implications for Sherlock Season 5

Uncertain Future for Sherlock

Benedict Cumberbatch as Sherlock Thinking

Cumberbatch’s remarks offer little assurance regarding the prospect of a season 5. In December of the previous year, co-creator Steven Moffat posited that it would be “madness not to do”another season, citing the strong and loyal fan base. However, he did not divulge any concrete plans for the series’ continuation. Both Cumberbatch and Martin Freeman have previously shown interest but have refrained from committing to a fifth season, keeping fans in suspense.

Previous discussions among the creative team, including Moffat, have indicated that the delay in development for a fifth season is largely due to the busy schedules of Cumberbatch and Freeman. Both actors have emerged as highly sought-after talents, complicating any potential collaboration. Cumberbatch has made his desire to explore a variety of projects evident, suggesting that reprising his role as Sherlock may not be his foremost priority, especially with his commitments to the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Recently, he has confirmed his involvement in future Marvel projects, including Avengers: Secret Wars and the anticipated Doctor Strange 3.

Assessing the Likelihood of Sherlock Season 5

Potential Decline in Interest

Benedict Cumberbatch and Mark Gatiss as Sherlock and Mycroft Holmes

While Sherlock retains a substantial fan following, some previously dedicated viewers may have drifted away over the past eight years. Those ratings have remained favorable; however, the final episode of season 4, entitled “The Final Problem,”polarized critics and audiences alike. Additionally, other adaptations of the detective’s narrative are currently in development, such as Guy Ritchie’s Young Sherlock and CBS’s Watson, potentially diverting attention from the long-awaited season 5. Thus, while the return of Sherlock is conceivable, its appeal may have diminished as time has passed.

Source: Variety

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