CBS's 'Watson' Premieres; A Fresh Take on Sherlock Holmes' Iconic Sidekick

2025-01-28

CBS’s new drama Watson premiered on January 26, 2025, blending the worlds of Sherlock Holmes and medical procedurals. The series, starring Morris Chestnut as Dr. John Watson, reimagines the iconic character as a Pittsburgh-based geneticist leading a clinic specializing in rare disorders. The show opens with a dramatic prologue at Switzerland’s Reichenbach Falls, where Sherlock Holmes and his nemesis Moriarty seemingly perish, leaving Watson to return to his medical roots.

The premiere reveals a twist: Moriarty, played by Randall Park, survives and is revealed in the final moments. Park’s casting was kept secret to surprise viewers, with creator Craig Sweeny describing the choice as a deliberate inversion of Park’s typically affable persona. Moriarty’s interest in Watson’s clinic centers on the rare DNA samples collected there, hinting at a sinister plan rooted in genetic science.

The series draws comparisons to House, with Watson leading a team of young doctors in solving medical mysteries. However, Watson distinguishes itself by weaving in elements of the Sherlock Holmes canon, including nods to characters like Irene Adler and Inspector Lestrade. The show also explores Watson’s personal struggles, including his recovery from a traumatic brain injury and his complicated relationship with his ex-wife, Mary Morstan (Rochelle Aytes).

While the medical procedural aspects are standard for CBS, the integration of Sherlockian mythology has been met with mixed reactions. Critics note the show’s tonal inconsistency, oscillating between a serious medical drama and a quirky mystery. Despite its flaws, Morris Chestnut’s performance as Watson has been praised for its charm and empathy, offering a fresh take on the character.

The series promises a season-long arc centered on Watson’s battle against Moriarty, with the villain’s return and his manipulation of Watson’s clinic serving as the primary narrative thread. Whether Watson can successfully balance its dual inspirations remains to be seen, but its unique premise and Chestnut’s star power make it a curious addition to CBS’s lineup.

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