Recent reports reveal that the lead actor in "Sherlock," Benedict Cumberbatch, is all set to return to BBC One. However, it does little to quell the "Sherlock" season 5 cancellation rumors as the actor is said to be appearing on a short movie, albeit on the same network.
According to Deadline, Cumberbatch will star in a 90-minute TV movie adapted from Ian McEwan's book, "A Child in Time," for BBC One network. "Sherlock" actor will not only star in the said film but also serve as an executive producer. The short TV movie will be directed by Julian Farino and Steven Butchard will work on the novel's adaptation.
The story of the film will revolve around a marriage that suffered a blow due to loss of the couple's child. Cumberbatch, who will play the character of Stephen Lewis, the children's author, is consumed by grief after losing his daughter, Kate. Sudden loss of their daughter sets Lewis and his wife on different paths as the two deal with their sorrow differently. Over the years, the couple that digressed after their daughter's sudden loss unexpectedly finds hope that helps them restore balance in their lives.
Meanwhile, as fans wait for more information about "Sherlock" season 5 amid cancellation rumors, no renewal update or assurances of new seasons has been shared so far. In fact, even before "Sherlock" season 4 premiered, the rumors were strong that this might be the series finale as the lead actors, Benedict Cumberbatch and Martin Freeman (Dr. Watson), are busy with their respective Hollywood schedules.
Even the showrunners, Mark Gatiss and Steven Moffat, are unaware of "Sherlock's" fate, The Telegraph reported. Despite the uncertainty, the creators did not immediately shoot down the possibility of season 5. According to the creators, Sherlock's story may progress over the years, giving hope to the fans that new seasons might come in distant future.
For now, "Sherlock" season 5 cancellation rumors are pulsating online as Cumberbatch is not only busy with a BBC One TV project, but also with his upcoming MCU film, "Thor: Ragnarok," where the actor will return as Doctor Strange. Whereas, Freeman is set to appear in "Black Panther" pegged for 2018 release.