Sherlock creator reveals “best episode” in show’s history – and why 15 years is not a proper anniversary

Absolutely, let’s discuss it! However, a fabricated anniversary doesn’t resonate with me. There are specific milestones such as the 20th and 50th, but I’m unsure if the 15th fits into that category.

Despite this, Gatiss, who not only co-created the series and portrayed Mycroft Holmes, later discussed the program extensively. He shared insights on how it often drew inspiration from Doyle’s original works and identified his favorite among the thirteen episodes as the ‘best’.

As a cinephile, I’d put it this way: “You see, we never referred to it as a remake, but rather a restoration. We were approached to write novel adaptations, and our response was a firm ‘No way’. Instead, we suggested readers delve into the original works by Conan Doyle themselves. And let me tell you, there were plenty who praised us for placing Dr. Watson in Afghanistan, only to have someone exclaim, ‘But that’s not what Conan Doyle wrote!’ Indeed, that was the idea – to remind audiences of the authenticity and originality of the source material.

In various instances, we aimed to replicate the essence of the original. The outstanding episode, undeniably A Scandal in Belgravia, is a dynamic expansion of the tale while preserving all its key elements. For instance, Sherlock continues his deception by disguising himself as a clergyman, he orchestrates a crisis within the household, Irene Adler outsmarts him, and there are even physical confrontations involved.

In the second season’s debut episode, titled “A Scandal in Belgravia,” penned by Moffat, we find Sherlock Holmes, portrayed by Benedict Cumberbatch, encountering Lara Pulver’s character, Irene Adler. This intriguing woman, who runs a dominatrix business, had garnered the attention of multiple groups due to her possession of incriminating photographs involving a member of the royal family.

Gatiss mentioned that they frequently returned to Doyle’s works. Interestingly, one of his top stories is a brief one titled “A Case of Identity,” which primarily shines on paper but contains small gems. I believe I utilized those elements at least four times. Upon revisiting, I discovered, ‘What a lovely, subtle exchange!’

As a film enthusiast, I found myself observing the client on the bustling street, their indecision palpable as they wavered between coming or staying. Suddenly, there was a swift tug at the bell rope, and with a knowing smile, I murmured to myself, “A quick pull of that bell always hints at matters of the heart.” Indeed, it’s moments like these that make film-watching such an enchanting experience.

Additionally, there were frequent instances of his brilliance that we could draw upon, as Doyle had already navigated such situations in the past.

In a discussion at The TopMob Writers’ Room, Gatiss shared insights into his projects, including The League of Gentlemen, Doctor Who, and his latest detective series called Bookish.

In the given series, Gatiss portrays the character of Gabriel Book, a proprietor of an antique bookstore set in 1946, who additionally assists the local authorities with resolving mysteries and crimes.

Sherlock can be streamed on BBC iPlayer now, while Bookish will start streaming on U&Alibi from July 16th, 2025.