[Editor’s note: The following contains some spoilers for Watson.]
Key Highlights of the CBS Series ‘Watson’
- The CBS series ‘Watson’ intricately narrates the journey of Dr. John Watson, following the presumed demise of the legendary detective Sherlock Holmes, who allegedly fell at the hands of the villainous James Moriarty.
- Actor Morris Chestnut shares insights on the show’s distinctive approach and the intricate challenge of merging complex medical and detective terminology seamlessly.
- The menacing influence of Moriarty casts a significant shadow over the entire season, deeply impacting Watson, his investigative team, and the supporting characters throughout their adventures.
The CBS series Watson showcases the compelling narrative of Dr. John Watson, portrayed by Morris Chestnut, as he navigates life six months after the mysterious death of Sherlock Holmes. With no body found to confirm the death, Watson is left to grapple with his loss. As he focuses on his medical profession, striving to address rare medical disorders, he assembles a dynamic team consisting of Dr. Sasha Lubbock (Inga Schlingmann), Dr. Stephens Croft, Dr. Adam Croft (twins played by Peter Mark Kendall), and Dr. Ingrid Derian (Eve Harlow) to tackle complex cases. Yet, the deeper enigmas lurking behind the scenes of Watson?s life may prove to be the most formidable challenge of the entire season.
In a candid conversation with Collider, Morris Chestnut reflects on embracing the rich mythology of Sherlock Holmes from the vantage point of Watson. He discusses his eagerness to portray this iconic character, highlighting how Watson diverges from his previous role in The Resident. Chestnut delves into his efforts to comprehend the intricate cases they confront, the enigmatic motivations of Shinwell (Ritchie Coster), the evolving team dynamics, and the pivotal role that Moriarty plays in this season’s narrative arc.
Morris Chestnut Enthusiastically Explores the Sherlock Holmes Mythology from Dr. Watson’s Perspective
Collider: As a fan of Sherlock Holmes adaptations, I was particularly intrigued by how this show focuses on Watson’s character. What were your thoughts on this unique perspective?
MORRIS CHESTNUT: I appreciate your enthusiasm! One aspect that genuinely thrilled me about this project was the chance to delve into Watson’s perspective, especially since the classic tales have predominantly been told through Sherlock’s eyes. This narrative shift allows us to explore uncharted territory post-Sherlock’s demise, granting us creative freedom to craft a fresh storyline.
Especially given the absence of a body, it raises many questions about the truth behind Sherlock’s fate.
CHESTNUT: Absolutely! It’s a valid point. I find myself apprehensive because I want to keep the mystery alive without revealing too much. The absence of physical proof certainly adds layers of intrigue.
Your insights challenge the conventional depiction we often see in Sherlock Holmes narratives.
CHESTNUT: Yes, that’s the beauty of this approach.
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What was your initial reaction when you were offered this role? Did you ever envision yourself taking on such an iconic character?
CHESTNUT: Honestly, I never anticipated this opportunity would come my way. It was completely unexpected, but I felt an immense sense of excitement when they reached out and expressed their interest in my involvement. After reading the script, I was truly captivated. The chance to contribute to the rich mythology of Sherlock Holmes, combined with the unique script crafted by Craig [Sweeny], was an irresistible offer. The moment I grasped the concept and narrative, I knew I had to be a part of it.
‘Watson’ Blends Medical Drama and Detective Work, Creating a Unique Team of “Doctectives”
In a series where the plot unfolds without a predetermined conclusion, what elements of the story capture your interest enough to commit to it long-term?
CHESTNUT: One of the most appealing aspects of Watson is its unique blend of genres. We?re not confined to a traditional medical drama or a standard detective series. We are “doctectives,” combining the expertise of doctors with the intrigue of detectives. My experience on The Resident was rewarding, but it was limited to the hospital setting. In Watson, we venture beyond those walls, gathering clues, visiting crime scenes, and piecing together mysteries. This dynamic is incredibly engaging, and I can see myself enjoying this role for years to come.
Finding the right balance between medical and investigative dialogue seems challenging. How has it been for you to navigate this unique blend?
CHESTNUT: Our creator and showrunner, Craig Sweeny, possesses an extraordinary intellect. Merging the distinct languages of medicine and detective work presents a unique challenge. Medical jargon is complex, and I strive to fully grasp the context behind the dialogue. When you intertwine it with detective lingo, it becomes even more intricate.
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In the series, you tackle bizarre and rare medical cases. How do you approach these unique challenges?
CHESTNUT: The cases we encounter are often extraordinary, pushing the boundaries of reality. The science behind them is grounded in reality, which makes it even more fascinating. For instance, one episode features a patient with sickle cell disease, where Watson explores unconventional methods to find a cure. Another episode involves a patient with a hand that moves involuntarily, and we even have a storyline where a patient believes there’s a monster inside her stomach. These narratives are based on real medical phenomena, making them both intriguing and educational.
Do you strive to understand the complex cases presented in the series, or are there instances where that proves challenging?
CHESTNUT: That?s an insightful question. With the demanding filming schedule, we produce eight episodes, and the workload can be overwhelming in terms of memorizing lines. Yet, I make it a priority to grasp the cases we explore. It?s essential for me to convey the information effectively to the audience, especially since I often explain the medical aspects. We filmed 13 episodes, and there were days where I had to memorize five pages of dialogue before lunch, only to move on to new material right after. It can feel like cramming for a test; I understand the material in the moment, but weeks later, the details can fade.
As the narrative evolves, we know that Moriarty is still alive, and Shinwell (Ritchie Coster) is somehow involved. What was your reaction as an actor learning how these elements intertwine in the storyline? Why do you think Watson is blind to these connections despite his analytical skills?
CHESTNUT: You bring up a fascinating point. From the start of the series, Watson is dealing with a traumatic brain injury, which inherently affects his perception. Additionally, he is coping with profound loss?his best friend and wife are gone. Throughout the season, Watson embarks on a journey to rediscover his identity. Leaving behind his wife to solve mysteries in England resulted in his world unraveling. The traumatic brain injury combined with the emotional turmoil complicates his ability to navigate the situation effectively. With the weight of trauma and medication, Watson’s struggles to grasp the truth become evident.
When trust is established, it can be difficult to see the flaws in those you rely on, making it harder to detect deceit than with strangers.
CHESTNUT: That?s an astute observation.
