The Wheel of Time star talks becoming Moriarty in Young Sherlock – and the “form of love” between these iconic characters

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This article appears in the new issue of TopMob magazine, out Tuesday 24 February.

Dónal Finn, the Irish actor who plays James Moriarty, sees the series Young Sherlock as more than just an exciting adventure. While he enjoyed the action and fight scenes, Finn feels the show is fundamentally about two outsiders connecting through shared interests and a deep affection, even if they don’t explicitly say it.

Finn says they looked to the film Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid for inspiration, revisiting it before making their own project. He was particularly struck by the deep connection between the two main characters, set against the backdrop of the rugged Wild West. Despite not openly expressing their feelings, they were clearly willing to sacrifice everything for each other.

We wanted to show that Sherlock and Moriarty have a complex relationship where they challenge and risk things for each other. It’s a kind of deep connection, almost a twisted love, which isn’t often explored, especially considering how much we’re now discussing male isolation. Both characters experience loneliness, and this bond is significant for them because of it.

Like his co-star, Finn was a big fan of the Sherlock Holmes stories, especially the series starring Benedict Cumberbatch, which actually inspired him to pursue acting as a teen. He knew his character would eventually become the villain, but he had to focus on the character’s journey as it unfolded. He explains it’s similar to watching a movie like Titanic – you know the ending, but you’re still invested in how the story gets there. Finn portrays Moriarty at a crucial point in his development, before his villainous traits are fully formed. He believes Moriarty isn’t inherently evil, but is shaped by his experiences and the way he views the world.

There’s something special about this story. Even though these characters are famous, we’re seeing them at a completely new stage in their lives – as young people just starting to realize their talents, and discovering them in a pure and genuine way.

Finn understands what it’s like to stumble into a passion. Growing up in Cork, Ireland, he took acting classes as a hobby, never imagining it would become his profession. He didn’t even know drama school was an option until a teacher suggested he apply. With financial help from the Overstall Charitable Trust, he was able to attend Lamda and went on to appear in the original West End production of Hadestown, as well as the BBC series SAS: Rogue Heroes and Prime Video’s The Wheel of Time.

I just did acting as a hobby until I started thinking about university,” he explains. Discovering that drama school was a real option, and having a teacher who believed in me, was incredible. He made me feel like I belonged – like I wasn’t just a country boy from Cork. For the first time, I felt like I had a place where I could thrive.

Honestly, I still can’t believe I got into Lamda – it was a total dream come true. And then to be cast as Moriarty? That’s just… incredible. It’s a role that’s been brilliantly brought to life by actors like Andrew Scott and Jared Harris, people I’ve always looked up to. I’m so aware of how fortunate I am to even attempt it, and I really feel the pressure – in the best way – to do the part justice.

Finn describes the show’s dynamic as intricate, pointing to scenes like the washerwoman escape where Moriarty and Holmes frequently use disguises to stay ahead of the law, and Moriarty often alters his voice. Finn enjoys the playful aspect of these deceptions, saying, “It’s fun to pretend to be a police officer and do a crazy accent.” He compares Moriarty to a cat toying with string, emphasizing that both he and Holmes believe they’re untouchable, simply enjoying a mental game. Finn explains that Moriarty is adaptable and blends into society, allowing him to climb the social ladder unnoticed.

Finn also hoped to work with director Guy Ritchie. He notes that Ritchie’s films often feature characters who remain calm and collected, even when facing intense pressure. According to Finn, these characters excel in high-stakes scenarios because they don’t get flustered – they’re just naturally cool and able to adapt.

It’s really satisfying to see a character find peace and calm that feels unattainable for yourself. It’s also fascinating to explore Sherlock Holmes’s backstory, going back a decade before the original stories, and consider what experiences would shape someone into the highly observant, survival-focused person he is. It’s a compelling question, especially considering how famous a literary figure he is.

Joseph Fiennes discusses the beginnings of the Young Sherlock Holmes story and his experience playing the father of his nephew’s character in the film.

Authors

Emma Cox

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2026-02-22 11:35