Guy Ritchie: Sherlock Holmes 3 depends entirely on Robert Downey Jr.

A third film in Guy Ritchie's Sherlock Holmes series has been rumored for some time, but according to the director, everything is now in the hands of star Robert Downey Jr.

Speaking to Collider, Ritchie - who directed Sherlock Holmes in 2009 and the sequel to Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows in 2011 - said Downey Jr. wanted to be in charge of a third movie, and so from now on, things are in his hands.

"Well, honestly, I left that up to Robert," Ritchie revealed. “So Robert wanted to be in charge of that. The ball is in his court, so he's in charge of the screenplay, he's the one who takes care of everything. I walked away from that until there was a time for me to get involved. »

The future of the Sherlock Holmes franchise has been shrouded in mystery for some time. In April 2022, a report from Variety noted that HBO Max was developing two television series tied to the films, with Downey Jr. and his wife, Susan, producing them. However, it is unclear whether or not these projects continue to be in development.

A third feature film in the franchise has also been in the works for over 10 years now, with the film even originally slated for a 2021 release at some point. The film is rumored to see Downey Jr. and Jude Law return as Sherlock and Dr. John Watson, respectively, although it's unclear whether or not further progress has been made in the development of this film.