Sherlock Holmes is one of the most iconic and beloved characters in literature and popular culture. Many actors have taken on the role of the legendary detective, each bringing their own unique interpretation to the character. Here, we explore some of the most notable actors who have portrayed Sherlock Holmes in different on-screen adaptations over the years.
Basil Rathbone
Basil Rathbone is perhaps one of the most famous actors to have portrayed Sherlock Holmes, having appeared in 14 films as the iconic detective in the 1930s and 1940s. His portrayal is known for its sharp wit, meticulous attention to detail, and an understated charm that made him a fan favorite.
Fans consider Rathbone’s performances in films such as The Hound of the Baskervilles and The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes to be some of the best adaptations of the character to date. Rathbone’s portrayal was so beloved that it helped to define the character for generations to come.
Peter Cushing
Peter Cushing played Sherlock Holmes in the 1959 film The Hound of the Baskervilles and a 1968 series titled Sherlock Holmes. Fans admired Cushing’s portrayal for its intelligence, wit, and sophistication. His performance in the films helped to bring the character to a wider audience.
Jeremy Brett
Jeremy Brett is another legendary actor who portrayed Sherlock Holmes in a TV series that aired from 1984 to 1994, beginning with The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes. Brett’s portrayal was characterized by its meticulous attention to detail, authenticity, and dramatic intensity. Fans and critics alike highly regarded Brett’s performances in the series, and his portrayal has become one of the most iconic and beloved versions of the character. Many consider Brett’s performances in episodes such as “The Sign of Four” and “The Final Problem” to be some of the most definitive adaptations of the character.
Michael Caine
Michael Caine played Sherlock Holmes in the 1988 film Without a Clue, alongside Ben Kingsley as Dr. Watson. Caine’s portrayal exhibited humor, charm, and wit. His performance in this humorous reimagining of the characters helped to bring a new dimension to Holmes, and prove that it’s possible tell a Sherlock Holmes story well, even if the details take an unconventional approach.
Benedict Cumberbatch
Benedict Cumberbatch portrayed Sherlock Holmes in the hit BBC TV series Sherlock from 2010 to 2017. Cumberbatch characterized the legendary detective with a sharp wit, eccentricity, and intensity. His performances in episodes such as “A Study in Pink” and “The Reichenbach Fall” redefined the character for a modern audience, showing that the character’s insight and disregard for Scotland Yard bureaucracy transcends Holmes’ original time period.
Robert Downey Jr.
Robert Downey Jr. played Sherlock Holmes in the 2009 film Sherlock Holmes and its 2011 sequel, Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows. Audiences appreciated Downey’s performances for its humor, energy, and charisma, and the portrayal for its action-packed approach, wit, and charm.
Jonny Lee Miller
Jonny Lee Miller played Sherlock Holmes in the CBS TV series Elementary from 2012 to 2019 alongside Lucy Liu as a gender-flipped Watson, working in New York City. Audiences appreciate Elementary for its modern approach, wit, and complexity, as seen in episodes such as “The Deductionist”.
Holmes, past and future
Over the years, each actor has brought their own unique interpretation to the role of Sherlock Holmes. While this is far from a comprehensive list, each actor in this list of iconic portrayals has helped to define and redefine the character for a new generation of fans.
With the character’s timeless popularity, and storytellers’ growing boldness and spirit of experimentation, it is likely that we will see many more actors of all races and genders take on the role of the legendary detective for years to come.
