‘Sherlock’ Season 5 Not Happening: Benedict Cumberbatch, Martin Freeman To Blame

"Sherlock" Season 5 may not happen at all, according to showrunner Mark Gatiss. He hinted at the show's cancellation is due to Benedict Cumberbatch and Martin Freeman's busy schedules.

Gatiss said that he does not see a future for "Sherlock" Season 5. He hinted at the cancellation in a recent interview and explained why he believes Season 4 is the last. The series creator admitted that it has been a challenge to find the time when both Cumberbatch and Freeman can film together. "I honestly don't know if there will be any more. It's incredibly difficult to get Benedict and Martin's diaries to align," Gatiss told The Sun at WhatsOnStage Awards on Monday.

Likewise, the showrunner thought "Sherlock" Season 5 may not be necessary given how Season 4 ended. The finale did not end in a cliffhanger. Gatiss said it left the story "in a very happy place," which he believes is a good way to leave the show.

Prior to Gatiss' interview, rumors swirled that Cumberbatch and Freeman are not interested in the installment. They reportedly do not have the desire anymore to do "Sherlock" Season 5. The publication cited a source who claimed both actors do not wish to come back for another season.

Likewise, Cumberbatch and Freeman reportedly have a "frosty relationship," which could be the main reason why "Sherlock" Season 5 is no longer happening. They are polite and professional with each other, but they do not spend time together outside the show. They also do not spend time together in between filming. Fans would expect to see them become closer over the six years that they have worked on "Sherlock."

Meanwhile, aside from Gatiss, co-creator Steven Moffat also cast doubt on "Sherlock" Season 5. He hinted at the cancellation in his interview with The Independent. He said Season 4 could be the last, although he also hopes to see it continue.

As it stands, the fate of "Sherlock" Season 5 remain uncertain. It now depends on Cumberbatch and Freeman if they want to continue. It also depends if their busy schedules would permit another season.