From 2010 to 2017, a BBC adaptation of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s Sherlock Holmes stories captivated TV audiences for four seasons and 14 episodes, fueling their imaginations. This miniseries, created by Steven Moffat and Mark Gatiss, gives a fresh spin to the detective’s escapades. Although other adaptations of Conan Doyle’s works have appeared on screens before, and others may follow, what makes Sherlock stand out is its innovative portrayal of characters and the exceptional actors who breathe life into them.
In simpler terms, Benedict Cumberbatch’s Sherlock Holmes displays sociopathic tendencies and has an affinity for his best friend; Andrew Scott’s Moriarty is characterized by obsession and cunning, while Mark Gatiss portrays Mycroft Holmes as someone even Sherlock considers potentially smarter. While the younger brother indulges in thrilling adventures to solve crime puzzles, Mycroft Holmes wields his abilities from behind the scenes, seemingly possessing unlimited power. He can make people and crime records vanish, control surveillance systems at will, and access top-secret confidential files. However, one might wonder what kind of position grants him almost unrestricted control over virtually everything?
Mycroft Holmes: The Man, the Mystery, the Government?
As Mycroft claims, he occupies a relatively minor role within the administration. However, Sherlock disagrees strongly, asserting that Mycroft effectively embodies the British Government. This sentiment is expressed clearly in “The Hounds of Baskerville” episode where Mycroft himself says, “Mycroft’s name alone can open doors. You know I’ve told you, he’s practically synonymous with the British government.
It doesn’t necessarily mean that Mycroft is the Prime Minister. There are instances where Mycroft distinguishes himself from the PM, suggesting a separate entity with whom he has access. In “A Scandal in Belgravia”, for example, Mycroft tasks Sherlock to retrieve incriminating photos of a royal family member on behalf of the Queen (or another high-ranking royal) from Irene Adler. This suggests that Mycroft has connections even with the royal family and is often approached by the truly powerful when they need tasks done discreetly.
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It’s intriguing to consider how Mycroft possesses the authority and access to execute such extensive actions, both in the series and even in the books. While Conan Doyle doesn’t explicitly explain his power source, he only mentions that Mycroft holds a minor government position. However, his name alone seems to unlock access to top-secret military installations, like in “The Hounds of Baskerville”. He certainly isn’t a politician. Instead, he operates from behind the scenes. He avoids public attention, never appearing on TV or gracing newspaper headlines. Despite his immense power, he remains an enigmatic figure, which enables him to conduct his affairs discreetly.
Based on Magnussen’s mind palace records, it appears that he belongs to MI6, also known as the UK’s Secret Intelligence Service (SIS). While he may hold a high position within MI6, his extensive knowledge and influence suggest he might transcend even its boundaries. Unlike traditional MI6 operations focused on foreign espionage, Magnussen seems more engaged with internal national affairs. However, his abilities extend to foreign matters as well, evident in his rescue of Sherlock following the Reichenbach incident. This could indicate that his influence extends higher than just MI6. Given his knowledge of classified government information, defense strategies, and foreign intelligence, it’s possible he is involved with the Joint Intelligence Committee. Such a position would explain his access and clearance levels. However, he is not the chairman of the committee, as this position is publicly known. So far, this seems to be the most logical hypothesis. Yet, there are still some mysteries left unanswered…
In a simplified manner: Mycroft Holmes, in most instances, holds the reins. The nature of his job on the show remains enigmatic, much like a puzzle that Sherlock’s survival from the Reichenbach fall couldn’t quite solve. Even Conan Doyle’s books didn’t provide a clear answer to this question. Interestingly, the series follows suit by not revealing Mycroft’s role completely. Although it can be aggravating, this approach enhances the air of mystery surrounding him. Maybe this is the intention behind it – that no matter how many ideas we generate, the truth will forever remain elusive.
You have several options to watch the BBC’s show “Sherlock”. It is available for streaming on platforms like Hulu, BritBox, Roku, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, and PBS’s streaming service.
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2025-05-30 23:11