Morris Chestnut takes on Dr. Watson in a fresh investigative series

Watson’s world premiere shines in Cannes

The curtains rose on this year’s Mipcom in Cannes with the world premiere of Paramount Global’s “Watson”. This series, set to make its debut on Jan 26 on the CBS Television Network, features Reasonable Doubt star Morris Chestnut stepping into the shoes of the iconic Dr. John Watson. This new spin on the classic Sherlock Holmes tale focuses keenly on Watson’s medical career.

Shifting the narrative: From detective to doctor

In “Watson”, the storyline begins after the death of Sherlock Holmes. Dr. Watson, instead of continuing with crime-solving, returns to his medical roots, heading a clinic that specializes in rare disorders. This series has been described as “a medical show with a strong investigative spine,” blending the chase for elusive medical diagnoses with the intrigue historically associated with Holmes.

Production dreams and accomplished team

The production of “Watson” is handled by CBS Studios and distributed by Paramount Global Content Distribution. Craig Sweeny returns to the world of Sherlock, having previously written and executive produced CBS’s Elementary. He assumes the role of showrunner and executive producer alongside Morris Chestnut who is also taking on an executive producer role. The talented team includes Sallie Patrick, Larry Teng, Shäron Moalem, Aaron Kaplan of Kapital Entertainment, and Brian Morewitz. The first two episodes are helmed by Larry Teng’s directorial expertise.

The talent lineup: Cast and characters

Joining Morris Chestnut in this ambitious project are actors Eve Harlow (The Night Agent), Rochelle Aytes (Mistresses), Peter Mark Kendall (Kaleidoscope), Ritchie Coster (Tulsa King), and Inga Schlingmann (So Help Me Todd). This diverse and talented cast promises to bring depth and nuance to their characters, ensuring a dynamic viewing experience.

Behind the scenes with Morris Chestnut

Chestnut shared his excitement about taking on such a monumental role in an iconic mythology. He commended Sweeny’s deep respect for the original stories, which translates into the meticulously crafted storylines. Chestnut acknowledged the weight of playing Watson, a character rooted in literary history, while embracing the opportunity to bring new dimensions to the role.

Morris Chestnut’s journey to fame began in 1991 with Boyz in the Hood. His impressive filmography includes roles in G.I. Jane, The Game Plan, The Call, and The Best Man series. On television, he has been seen in Rosewood, Goliath, and earned four NAACP Image Awards, including one for his portrayal of Dr. Ike Prentiss in Nurse Jackie. His preparation for “Watson” involved diving into the original works of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle and observing various screen renditions of the character. This unique approach speaks to Watson’s expanded focus, rather than the usual center on Holmes.

A character with principles

Chestnut describes Watson as a rule-bender who prioritizes his patients’ wellbeing above all else. In the series, this character’s dedication sometimes lands him in hot water, emphasizing that his actions, though risky, are always motivated by a genuine concern for his patients.

Challenges on set: The reality of medical drama

One of the most complex aspects for Chestnut was not just carrying the legacy of Watson but also tackling the intricacies of medical terminology. Emphasizing the precision required, Chestnut spoke about the demanding nature of portraying a doctor, which he experienced in previous roles in The Resident and Nurse Jackie. The accurate portrayal of medical procedures adds a layer of realism and challenges to the role.

Reflections on an evolving career

Reflecting on his career, Chestnut views this role as a culmination of his professional journey. His experience playing leading roles, notably in Rosewood, has refined his skills and prepared him for the complexities of “Watson”. Chestnut expressed a continuous drive to improve with each new role, finding excitement in personal and professional growth.

What fans can expect

For die-hard fans of Sherlock Holmes, “Watson” offers both a fresh take and familiar elements. Set in Pittsburgh, the series adapts the atmospheric essence of Holmes’s London, adding vibrant details like colorful trench coats. This blend of old and new promises a thrilling experience for both new audiences and longstanding fans.

Premiere anticipation and future episodes

As the series premiered in Cannes, Chestnut expressed enthusiasm for audiences to experience “Watson”. He praised the collaborative efforts of the team, including Sweeny, Larry Teng, CBS, and Paramount. Confidence in their work exudes from Chestnut’s reflections, marking this series as a highly anticipated addition to CBS’s lineup.

After its premiere, “Watson” will settle into its regular time slot on Sundays starting Feb. 16 (10:00-11:00pm ET/PT).

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