Robert Downey Jr hints at Sherlock Holmes 3 at 2026 Lincoln Center Spring Gala in New York
Susan Downey responded to questions about a third film with a sly grin and called it the greatest mystery
Robert Downey Jr. and his wife and producing partner, Susan Downey, have playfully fuelled speculation about a third Sherlock Holmes film, whilst stopping well short of confirming it.
The tease
Speaking to the Associated Press at the 2026 Lincoln Centre Spring Gala, Robert, 61, was asked whether a third film in the franchise was on the cards following 2009's Sherlock Holmes and its 2011 sequel.
"I don't know," he said. "People are talking about it, but she's the producer," he added, nodding towards Susan. He went on to say that she would "have the last word," wiggling his eyebrows at the camera for effect.
Susan, 52, responded with characteristic wit. "It's the greatest mystery," she said with a sly grin — prompting Robert to burst out laughing.
The franchise so far
Both Sherlock Holmes films were directed by Guy Ritchie and featured Jude Law as Watson alongside Robert Downey Jr. in the lead role. The supporting casts across both films included Rachel McAdams, Mark Strong, Noomi Rapace, and Jared Harris.
In 2016, distributor Warner Bros. was reported to be developing a third film. A 2021 release date was announced in 2019, but Sherlock Holmes 3 subsequently vanished from the studio's slate entirely.
About the Downeys
The Emmy Award-winning Susan has produced dozens of Hollywood films and series, including several starring her Oscar-winning husband. The pair, married since August 2005, share two sons and a daughter.
Together, they founded Team Downey, which has produced Perry Mason, The Sympathiser, Play Dirty, and more.
The gala
The Lincoln Centre Spring Gala, held on Monday at the Vivian Beaumont Theatre in New York City, honoured the Downeys. The venue is currently home to the Broadway revival of the musical Ragtime — and was also where Robert made his Broadway debut in Ayad Akhtar's play McNeal in autumn 2024.
Guests at the event included Daniel Radcliffe, Paul Bettany, Tessa Thompson, Anthony Roth Costanzo, Mark Strong, Stephen Flaherty, and Oscar Isaac.