“It’s lovely….”: Mycroft actor finally opens up about Sherlock Season 5 rumours 

For years, fans of Sherlock have been hoping for another chapter in the acclaimed BBC series. Rumours of a Season 5, a revival, or even a reboot with a new cast have circulated regularly. But now, Mark Gatiss — who co-created the show and played Mycroft Holmes — has spoken directly on the matter.

In a recent interview with Collider’s Therese Lacson during the International Global Series Festival, Gatiss addressed the ongoing questions about the future of Sherlock. His answer was direct.

“No. We had our go, and we struck gold with Benedict and Martin,” he said.

The BBC series, which aired from 2010 to 2017, starred Benedict Cumberbatch as Sherlock Holmes and Martin Freeman as Dr. John Watson. It ran for four seasons and a special episode. Gatiss co-wrote the series with Steven Moffat and played the detective's older brother, Mycroft.

Fans have speculated for years about the possibility of new episodes or a reimagining with a new cast. But according to Gatiss, that chapter has officially closed.

“It’s great to tip your hat to what a wonderful thing it was, but also it’s lovely to move forward,” he added.

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No more Sherlock: Why Season 5 is not happening

During the interview, Gatiss was asked if there could ever be a reboot, reimagining, or continuation of Sherlock. His response was clear:

“No.”

He explained that the original show was a moment in time that worked because of the right cast and chemistry.

“I mean, there’s no…what would be the point? You’d just be doing it again.”

He acknowledged that the series had its time and place, and trying to recreate it would not have the same effect.

“To be frank, you know, I’m 60 next year. It’s incredible. And how many more things can one do?” he said.

Gatiss confirmed that he is focused on new projects and has no plans to return to Sherlock, even in a different form or with different actors.

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Looking back at the show's legacy

Sherlock stood apart in its contemporary approach to Arthur Conan Doyle's narratives. It brought Holmes and Watson into 21st-century London and opened a difficult narrative to a worldwide audience.

The show garnered accolades for its directing and performances. But with its success came the question: could it ever return?

Gatiss dealt with this immediately, noting it was fantastic to tip the hat to a fantastic thing, but also lovely to move ahead.

Gatiss has discussed the show's conclusion before, but this is the clearest statement yet regarding the direction of the show. Though he made it quite plain that it is over, he expressed gratitude for the endeavor.

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A new chapter: Mark Gatiss in Bookish

Instead of revisiting Sherlock, Gatiss has turned to new work. His latest project, Bookish, is a six-part crime drama set in post-war London. The series will premiere on July 16 on PBS Mystery.

According to Collider, Bookish features Gatiss as Gabriel Book, a closeted antiquarian bookseller who helps the police solve crimes. The story is set in 1946 and draws on Book’s literary knowledge to solve mysteries.

The show also stars Polly Walker, Daniel Mays, Joely Richardson, and Paul McGann. It was written by Gatiss and Matthew Sweet and directed by Carolina Giammetta.

Gatiss described Bookish as the project he’s committed to now.

“I’m committed to doing this, and I’m very interested in doing new stuff, and Bookish is what I want to do.”

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Mark Gatiss has officially confirmed there are no plans for Season 5 or any reboot with a new cast. He made it clear that the original series was a unique moment that won’t be repeated. As he moves forward with new work like Bookish, the door to Sherlock is firmly closed.