Scripted

Harry King Television’s scripted division has unveiled its latest drama project, True Sherlock, a bold new series based on The Unexpurgated Adventures of Sherlock Holmes by Nicholas Sercombe. The first four feature-length episodes are in pre-production, with filming set to begin in the UK in January 2026.

Cast by Mary Jo Slater, the series stars Oli Higginson (Bridgerton, The Last Five Years) as Sherlock Holmes, and Will Kemp (El Turco, Reign) as his nemesis Professor Moriarty. Casting for Dr Watson and Mrs Hudson is currently underway.

Created and showrun by Sercombe, True Sherlock marks the first major screen adaptation of the Holmes stories in 40 years. Each episode will introduce original cases and feature guest stars as Holmes’ clients. The production team includes Nigel Wooll (Tár), Mark Sandell, and Jon Turtle, bringing significant experience to the high-profile project.

Targeting both long-time fans and a younger audience, True Sherlock blends classic storytelling with a modern twist, complete with cliffhangers, humour, and emotional depth. The series explores the origins of beloved characters—Holmes, Watson, Moriarty, and Mrs Hudson—uncovering how they came to be the icons we know today.

The opening episode, A Balls-Up in Bohemia, follows Holmes as he takes on a royal blackmail case with romantic entanglements, while Watson navigates an ill-advised marriage.

Following the successful launch of its unscripted format Curiosity, this scripted venture reflects Harry King Television’s expanding commitment to original IP. CEO Nicholas Sercombe comments:“Sherlock fans… get ready! With action, humour, and a very human twist, we’re reintroducing these iconic characters for a new generation. This case is wide open!”