Sherlock (2010)

Kernel Score: 90% · 6,246 ratings

Genres: Crime, Drama, Mystery

First aired: 2010-07-25

Seasons: 4 · 12 episodes

Is Sherlock worth watching?

Must-watch. A modern Sherlock Holmes and Dr Watson solve crimes in present-day London. The mysteries are clever, the editing is quick and Benedict Cumberbatch and Martin Freeman are a very good pair. Few shows make deduction this entertaining.

Watch it if you

  • like clever, fast-talking detective stories
  • enjoy a modern spin on a classic
  • want short seasons that are easy to binge

Skip it if you

  • want a straight, period Holmes
  • dislike plots that get more convoluted over time

Best for: Binge weekend

Fresh Kernels verdict, AI-assisted from our scores, audience reviews and the official rating.

Where to watch Sherlock

  • Stream: Hulu, Philo, AMC+, Britbox Apple TV channel, PBS, BritBox
  • Free with ads: KQED
  • Buy: Prime Video, Google Play

US availability, updated 2026-10-22.

Overview

A modern update finds the famous sleuth and his doctor partner solving crime in 21st century London.

Sherlock parents' guide: ages 11+

Parents need to know that Sherlock is a TV-14 mystery series with murder investigations and suspenseful crime content.

  • Violence & scariness: Some — Murder mysteries and criminal investigations are central, with suspenseful but not overly graphic content.

Fresh Kernels AI-assessed from the official TV-14 rating, publicly documented content. A guide for families, not an official rating.

Shows like Sherlock

If you liked Sherlock, these are the shows we'd watch next.

  • Sherlock Holmes (1984) — 91%: The classic Holmes in a faithful period version
  • Luther (2010) — 88%: Brilliant, troubled London detective with dark cases
  • Agatha Christie's Poirot (1989) — 89%: Another famous detective with a sharp mind
  • Inspector Morse (1987) — 88%: Classic British detective drama with careful plotting
  • Dark (2017) — 93%: Intricate mystery that rewards close attention
  • Mare of Easttown (2021) — 90%: Well-acted, character-focused mystery with a strong lead

Cast

Sherlock FAQ

Is Sherlock worth watching?

Must-watch. A modern Sherlock Holmes and Dr Watson solve crimes in present-day London. The mysteries are clever, the editing is quick and Benedict Cumberbatch and Martin Freeman are a very good pair. Few shows make deduction this entertaining.

Where can I watch Sherlock?

In the US you can stream Sherlock on Hulu, Philo, AMC+, Britbox Apple TV channel, PBS and BritBox, watch it free with ads on KQED and buy it from Prime Video and Google Play.

Is Sherlock OK for kids?

Sherlock is rated TV-14. Fresh Kernels suggests ages 11+. Parents need to know that Sherlock is a TV-14 mystery series with murder investigations and suspenseful crime content.

What shows are like Sherlock?

If you liked Sherlock, try Sherlock Holmes, Luther, Agatha Christie's Poirot and Inspector Morse.