Sherlock Holmes has been portrayed by several actors over the years, including modern versions by Benedict Cumberbatch in the BBC’s Sherlock and Jonny Lee Miller in Elementary. Yet one of the most unforgettable versions remains Robert Downey Jr.’s take on the iconic detective in Guy Ritchie’s period mystery films. Whether it is Downey’s refreshing spin on Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s fictional character or his brilliant chemistry with Jude Law, who played Dr. Watson, fans have continued to adore the franchise and hope for a third film.

So, while the ongoing rumors surrounding Sherlock Holmes 3 are understandable, is there any truth to these speculations? And if there is, will Downey Jr. reprise the role of Sherlock Holmes.

After Sherlock Holmes (2009) and Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows (2011), Robert Downey Jr.’s return as the iconic detective in Sherlock Holmes 3 has been talked about for years. But speculation resurfaced after a post by CoveredGeekly shared famed Insider Daniel Richtman's claim that the Iron Man actor might reprise his role. However, there has been no official confirmation from Warner Bros., Team Downey, or Downey himself regarding the project.

While Daniel Richtman's scoop may have said so, fans can only wait for an official update. Meanwhile, Downey's involvement in a third Sherlock Holmes film seems uncertain since he is set to return to the MCU as Doctor Doom. Back in 2019, reports suggested that directing duties would shift from Guy Ritchie to Dexter Fletcher. Moreover, Jude Law also hinted at one point that a script for the third installment existed during an interview with The Playlist. However, the film has yet to move forward.

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As much as fans may hope otherwise, there is currently no truth to the rumors. Still, the possibility of a return cannot be completely ruled out, especially since Downey’s wife, Susan Downey, who produced the previous films, has previously expressed hope for a third installment.

Susan Downey, who produced the Sherlock Holmes films starring Robert Downey Jr., revealed that the team actually came very close to making a third movie. However, for reasons she chose not to go into, the project ended up being put on hold. Even so, she made it clear that she hopes to revive the film.

"I would love to bring a third Sherlock to the world. I really would. And we've been playing with it for a long time," she said, as per Collider.

Susan also hinted that scheduling conflicts have played a major role in the delay. Both Robert Downey Jr. and Jude Law have been tied up with multiple projects since the last Sherlock Holmes installment. So while there is no truth to rumors of Sherlock Holmes 3, the dream of another sequel is not completely in the dark just yet.

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Do you want to see Robert Downey Jr.’s return for Sherlock Holmes 3? Let us know in the comments.