The Untold Connections: 10 Iconic TV Characters Heavily Influenced by Sherlock Holmes

Summary

Sherlock Holmes has had a lasting influence on television, inspiring characters like Shawn Spencer, The Professor, Eliza Simpson, and more.

These characters possess qualities akin to Holmes, including deductive abilities and an aloof demeanor, yet they also add their own distinct flair to the role.

Whether it be in the form of parody, adaptation, or direct influence, the legacy of Holmes and his fundamental characteristics persistently emanate from a diverse array of television icons.

Since his introduction in Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's novels, Sherlock Holmes has become a popular figure in various portrayals, parodies, and adaptations, inspiring numerous television characters. While these characters may not have direct connections to Holmes, they embody his distinctive personality traits as established by Conan Doyle. Whether Holmes is transported through time or across the globe, his core essence as a brilliant detective remains unchanged. In the original stories, Holmes is depicted as a brilliant but reclusive genius who occasionally enlists the help of Dr. Watson to solve complex cases. His exceptional deductive abilities and impeccable memory make him the finest detective in London. However, his disinterest in trivial matters and reluctance to form close relationships are traits that also shape the parodies and inspired characters associated with Holmes.

10 Shawn Spencer (Psych)

Psych's Shawn Spencer has an uncanny ability to convince the police that he possesses psychic powers, but in reality, his true talents lie in astute observation and logical deductions. Comparable to Sherlock Holmes, Shawn exhibits impressive problem-solving skills, despite his penchant for eccentric voices and his tendency to annoy his partner Gus. However, Shawn often gets sidetracked during cases if he finds something more enjoyable to do, causing Gus to constantly struggle to keep him focused. Unlike Holmes, who was described by Dr. Watson as lacking knowledge outside of his area of expertise, Shawn consistently surprises others with his vast repertoire of obscure facts.

9 The Professor (Money Heist)

The Professor presents a unique interpretation of Sherlock Holmes if he chose a life of crime. With meticulous plans to plunder the Spanish Royal Mint and the Bank of Spain, he prepares for every conceivable scenario, regardless of its improbability. Possessing an innate instinct for self-preservation, Money Heist's Professor consistently stays one step ahead of all, even his most trusted alliances. Similar to Holmes, The Professor's constant contemplation creates a sense of detachment from his surroundings until he unexpectedly develops feelings for one of the inspectors assigned to capture him. Ultimately, his profound concern for his team sets him apart from Holmes, yet both individuals share a methodical approach to their endeavors.

8 Eliza Simpson (The Simpsons)

7 Jimmy Kudo (Case Closed)

: The enduring fame of Sherlock Holmes has made him a prime target for satire, with his distinctive deerstalker cap and memorable quotes providing ample material. Even during Conan Doyle's lifetime, newspapers were filled with comical spoofs of the renowned detective, and these humorous jabs continue to this day. Notably, in one episode of The Simpsons' Halloween-themed "Treehouse of Horror" series, Lisa Simpson assumes the parodic role of Holmes alongside her companion Dr. Bartson. Additionally, characters such as Dr. Zoidberg from Futurama, Stewie Griffin from Family Guy, and Spongebob Squarepants have all wielded magnifying glasses and dedicated entire TV episodes to playfully imitating Sherlock Holmes.

While Sherlock Holmes never ventured to Japan, certain manga series draw inspiration from the legendary figure. Case Closed exemplifies this trend. The emblematic catchphrase of high school detective Jimmy Kudo, "There is always only one truth," evokes Holmes' renowned deductive methods. Furthermore, it is not coincidental that when Kudo assumes an alias to conceal his identity, his chosen first name is Conan, in homage to Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. Even as a teenager, Kudo possesses a reputation as a brilliant detective who tackles perplexing cases that have confounded Tokyo's police force. This mirrors Holmes' contentious dynamic with Inspector Lestrade.

6 Rust Cohle (True Detective)

True Detective season 1 combined a jaded pessimist with a practical realist, forming a dynamic duo onscreen. While this concept had been explored before, the undeniable chemistry between Woody Harrelson and Matthew McConaughey elevated an already outstanding script to new heights. McConaughey's character, Rust Cohle, battles with addiction, much like Sherlock Holmes, yet remains unwaveringly focused on his investigation, meticulously scrutinizing every piece of evidence. Cohle's laser-like focus on the facts is such that he scarcely flinches in the face of the victim's gruesome display. With Jodie Foster taking the lead in True Detective season 4, the show has yet to surpass its Holmes-inspired debut.

5 Dr. Temperance Brennan (Bones)

Teaming up with FBI Special Agent Seeley Booth, Temperance Brennan, known as Bones, is a forensic anthropologist utilizing her unparalleled expertise to assist in solving murder cases. Her unwavering commitment to objectivity and truth sometimes strains her personal relationships. Similar to Holmes, her brilliance can alienate others, yet her true companions come to understand and overlook her lack of familiarity with social conventions. Brennan's social ineptitude stems from a troubled childhood, much like Holmes' strained association with his brother Mycroft, which contributes to his rebellious nature and penchant for solitude. Over time, Brennan's bond with Booth softens her exterior, just as Watson manages to establish a genuine connection with Holmes.

4 Patrick Jane (The Mentalist)

3 Adrian Monk (Monk)

The Mentalist's Patrick Jane often appears remarkably lighthearted despite his pursuit of justice for his departed wife and daughter. Once a charlatan psychic, Jane artfully utilized his exceptional deductive skills to deceive unsuspecting individuals, but following his family's tragic demise, he redirected his focus towards unmasking their murderer. Both Jane and Holmes are unafraid to breach the boundaries of legality in pursuit of what they deem as the greater good; however, Jane's pleasant disposition enables him to avoid excessive trouble. These two characters rely upon their mastery of deductive reasoning as their primary arsenal.

After his wife is tragically murdered in the series Monk, Adrian Monk becomes a consultant for the San Francisco Police Department (SFPD). This devastating event deeply affects him, and his OCD spectrum disorder becomes even more pronounced as he grieves. However, Monk's attention to detail and obsession with cleanliness and order prove to be valuable assets in his investigations. His keen eye helps him uncover discrepancies in complex cases. Similar to Holmes, Monk possesses exceptional reasoning and memory skills. Operating as an outsider within the SFPD, Monk's role parallels Sherlock Holmes' relationship with the police at Scotland Yard.

2 John Luther (Luther)

Two of the most popular dramas produced by the BBC, Luther and Sherlock, share several similarities. Both stories revolve around detectives based in London whose exceptional crime-solving abilities lead them into increasingly dangerous situations. Idris Elba's portrayal of John Luther showcases a character driven by his own moral code, often disregarding legal protocols to ensure that the criminals he pursues face justice. Similar to Sherlock Holmes, Luther is also skilled in hand-to-hand combat, reminiscent of the original stories where Holmes is depicted as an accomplished boxer. In addition to its depiction of the protagonist detective, Luther also presents a gritty portrayal of London that echoes Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's writing and adds depth to the narrative.

1 Dr. Gregory House (House)

Sherlock Holmes' personality is largely influenced by a Scottish surgeon, and House reconnects the character to his medical origins. Dr. House, a self-absorbed genius, is driven by his relentless pursuit of the truth, and he shares numerous idiosyncrasies with Holmes. Both men find solace in music to stimulate their thought processes, and they both reside at 221B. By omitting the silent "L" in Holmes, the name coincidentally aligns with the word "House." Gregory House and Sherlock Holmes also share a best friend with the initials "J.W." (Dr. James Wilson and Dr. John Watson), who serve as the moral compasses for their self-centered companions.