cast of Watson consists of multiple characters pulled from the pages of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's work. This includes the clinic's medical director and Watson's ex-wife, Mary Morstan (Rochelle Aytes) and istrative aide Shinwell Johnson (Ritchie Coster).

Speaking with TV Insider, however, Sweeny confirmed when Inspector Lestrade, another Sherlock Holmes character, will debut in Watson. The series creator confirmed the familiar character would arrive in episode 10, reimagined as a detective in Pittsburgh who winds up working on a case with the titular protagonist. While not much is known about his debut, it's described as an "ongoing relationship," meaning his first appearance will not be his last. Check out what Sweeny had to say below:

Lestrade, in our universe, is a detective in Pittsburgh. They meet in Episode 10 and collaborate on a case. That’s very much going to be an ongoing relationship.

What Inspector Lestrade's Confirmation Means For Watson

How Will The Detective Character Show Up?

Sherlock Lestrade BBC

Lestrade has appeared in multiple recent adaptations of the famous detective's stories, typically in a recurring capacity. This included in the BBC's Sherlock, where he was portrayed by Rupert Graves, and in CBS' previous Sherlock Holmes show Elementary, portrayed by Sean Pertwee. While not much is known about how he'll be portrayed in Watson, the character is often displayed as a down-to-earth detective and frequent collaborator of the main duo. This same repertoire is likely to be reflected in his newest iteration.

Related
15 Most Iconic Adaptations Of Sherlock Holmes, Ranked Worst To Best

We rank the greatest portrayals of the world's greatest detective.

There's also no indication as to who will portray the character, despite other famous figures from the novels already having actors attached. Given the critical praise aimed at Chestnut's portrayal of Watson, however, it's likely the show has found a suitable actor whose presence will be perfect for the role. While it's a lot to live up to, given the many memorable performances of the detective that have come before, his inclusion overall is a promising indicator of how prevalent his role is going to be.

Our Take On Lestrade's Debut In Watson

The Case Could Pull From One Of His Original Appearances

Since Lestrade is a detective, his enlisting the show's lead character for help could signal their investigation won't be of the medical variety. This means his debut episode could pull from one of the original murder cases he was involved with in Doyle's writing, like A Study in Scarlet or The Hound of the Baskervilles. Whatever his debut will bring, it's clear Watson will honor the legacy of his character while putting a renewed twist on his detective skills and investigations.

New episodes of Watson begin Sunday, February 16 at 9 p.m. ET on CBS.

Source: TV Insider

Watson - Poster

Your Rating

Watson
Release Date
January 26, 2025
Network
CBS
Showrunner
Craig Sweeny
  • Headshot Of Morris Chestnut
    Morris Chestnut
    Dr. John Watson
  • Cast Placeholder Image
    Tommy O'Brien
    Zach

WHERE TO WATCH

Streaming

Directors
Larry Teng
Writers
Craig Sweeny
Creator(s)
Craig Sweeny