Robert Downey Jr says wife-producer Susan has ‘the last word’ on 'Sherlock Holmes 3' future
NEW YORK CITY, NEW YORK: Robert Downey Jr has a way of answering questions that keeps things low-key and mysterious. He gives just enough to make people curious.
The 'Doomsday' actor was asked about a possible third 'Sherlock Holmes' sequel. Instead of confirming anything, RDJ smoothly pivoted the conversation to his wife, Susan Downey.
In a way, he did what a lot of husbands do. He kept it honest while staying in the lane where his wife, the producer, would have the 'final' say about the third sequel. "I don’t know," RDJ said in a sarcastic tone to the Associated Press at the 2026 Lincoln Center Spring Gala.
Robert Downey Jr hints at possible 'Sherlock Holmes 3' update
Speaking at the 2026 Lincoln Center Spring Gala, the 'Avengers' actor was questioned about a follow-up to the 2009 'Sherlock Holmes' and its 2011 sequel. “People are talking about it, but she’s the producer,” he added, nodding toward his wife, Susan Downey.
Although RDJ plays the lead in the film adaptations of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s fictional detective universe, he emphasized that the final decision does not rest with him. He noted that Susan ultimately “will have the last word,” while wiggling his eyebrows toward the camera.
With a sly grin, Susan chimed in, “It’s the greatest mystery.” RDJ then burst out laughing as the exchange drew attention to their easy on-stage chemistry. The interaction also highlighted how the project’s future remains open-ended, with no confirmed updates on development or production timelines.
Despite ongoing audience interest in a third installment, no official announcement has been made regarding the continuation of the 'Sherlock Holmes' franchise.
'Sherlock Holmes 3' remains stalled despite sequel demand
Rumors about a third 'Sherlock Holmes' film have circulated for a long time, but the project has not moved forward. In 2016, reports stated that Warner Bros was developing a third film. In 2019, the release date was reportedly pushed to 2021.
After that, 'Sherlock Holmes 3' was removed from the studio’s release schedule, and there have been no official updates since then.
The first two films were directed by Guy Ritchie and starred RDJ as Sherlock Holmes and Jude Law as Dr John Watson. Rachel McAdams, Mark Strong, Noomi Rapace, and Jared Harris also appeared in the series.
The films follow Holmes and Watson as they solve cases involving crimes, conspiracies, and powerful enemies. The 2009 film focuses on a case that appears supernatural but is later explained through science and planning.
The 2011 sequel, 'Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows,' centers on Sherlock Holmes facing Professor Moriarty in a direct rivalry.
Both films performed well at the box office. 'Sherlock Holmes' (2009) earned over $524 million worldwide, while 'Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows' (2011) earned about $545 million worldwide. Reviews were mixed to positive, with strong praise for the performances of RDJ and Jude Law, as well as the directing style.
