Sherlock Holmes could be getting two HBO Max spin-offs – with Robert Downey Jr. producing

robert downey jr jude law sherlock holmes
(Image credit: WARNER BROTHERS)

The Sherlock Holmes extended universe could be one step closer to actually happening amid reports two spin-off shows are in the works. Robert Downey Jr.’s production company is eyeing up the series for HBO Max.

As per the Hollywood Reporter, these two shows would likely be based on detective stories by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. It’s thought they may introduce characters to the universe not brought into the previous films.

There’s no news yet on whether these will see Downey Jr. heading back to Baker Street once again, but Team Downey would be on board to executive produce both shows, just as they did for the 2009 and 2011 Guy Ritchie films. 

Downey Jr. played the iconic detective alongside Jude Law’s John Watson in the original movies. The pair were due to reunite for a third outing as well but this has yet to materialize. The latest update on that came in 2021, when the film was originally supposed to be out, as the creative team spoke of pandemic delays. 

Matt Reeves is also behind a new show focusing on Colin Farrell’s Penguin from The Batman, with other potential spin-offs from the film lined up too. Meanwhile, in other streaming Sherlock news, Netflix has its own ongoing version of Enola Holmes continuing with a sequel.

Fay Watson
Deputy Entertainment Editor

I’m the Deputy Entertainment Editor here at GamesRadar+, covering TV and film for the Total Film and SFX sections online. I previously worked as a Senior Showbiz Reporter and SEO TV reporter at Express Online for three years. I've also written for The Resident magazines and Amateur Photographer, before specializing in entertainment.