'Sherlock' returns to life for third PBS season

Sherlock (Benedict Cumberbatch) is alive and well and so is the show, co-starring Martin Freeman. / Robert Viglasky, Hartswood Films

PASADENA, Calif. â?? Fans of Benedict Cumberbatch's depiction of Sherlock Holmes needn't worry that the very busy actor is getting tired of the role.

'I'm going to keep going on with it,' Cumberbatch told writers while discussing the third season of Sherlock at the Television Critics Association winter press tour on Monday. 'I play enough other mad people as well, a varied palate.'

Sunday's third-season premiere of the PBS' Masterpiece drama jumped ahead two years from the Season 2 finale in which brilliant crime-solver Sherlock appeared to die after leaping from a tall building. The effect of the sleuth's return on his surprised sidekick, Dr. John Watson (Martin Freeman), is a central part of the episode.

Since John's point of view, as well as the audience's, was blocked by a smaller building, there was room for Sherlock to deceive his friend into believing he was dead, co-creator Steven Moffat said.

'John couldn't see the point of impact, (so) it was dead easy,' co-creator Steven Moffat said of Sherlock's cushioned landing. The only way to avoid hitting the sidewalk 'is not to hit it.'

Sunday's episode, which followed the popular Downton Abbey, drew nearly 4 million viewers, a 25% jump over the Season 2 opener. The remaining two episodes are scheduled for Jan. 26 and Feb. 2 (9:58 p.m. ET/PT, times may vary).

Sherlock also features Rupert Graves returns as Deputy Inspector Greg Lestrade, along with Una Stubbs as the landlady, Mrs. Hudson. The season also features a love interest for John, Mary Morstan (Amanda Abbington), and a new villain, played by Lars Mikkelsen. A fourth season is planned.

The popularity of the series, which is based on the works of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, was apparent from the Sherlock fans, including at least one wearing the sleuth's distinctive headgear, who waited outside the hotel where the press tour is held. Cumberbatch, who appeared in a number of feature films in 2013, said he appreciates the fan interest.

'I think a lot of it comes with who (Sherlock) is. He is a very iconic figure. (The attention is) extraordinary and a little unnerving,' he said. 'They are supportive, loyal and by and large intelligent and some of them normal and committed to something I really love doing and a character I like playing and other characters as well. It means a lot to me.'

Read the original story: 'Sherlock' returns to life for third PBS season

Lokasi:

Share :