Sherlock Holmes

Sherlock (played by Benedict Cumberbatch) is the protagonist of the series and is ‘the world’s only consulting detective.’ Fiercely intelligent, logical and known for his deductive skills, Sherlock is brought in to solve cases that are beyond Scotland Yard’s skills. However, he is extremely unsociable as a result and calls himself a ‘high-functioning sociopath’ who is not above manipulating strangers (and Molly) and insulting people who he finds dull or stupid (which is mostly every one). However, he does becoming more caring and in tune with his emotions after meeting John and even fakes his death to protect him. He also has a history of cocaine use, is a very good violinist and is an experienced chemist. Sherlock is derived from the English last name “’shear lock,’” meaning ‘someone with closely cut hair.’