In the upcoming Prime Video series Young Sherlock, directed by Guy Ritchie, teenage Sherlock Holmes (Hero Fiennes Tiffin) and James Moriarty (Dónal Finn) begin as close friends, according to showrunner Matthew Parkhill. This twist, building on the recent March 4 premiere announcement and trailer, explores dual origin stories for the iconic rivals.
Following Prime Video's reveal of the March 4 premiere date and action-packed trailer—which teased Sherlock's Oxford arrival, investigations, and budding friendship with Moriarty—showrunner Matthew Parkhill has detailed the creative vision behind their initial bond.
Parkhill told Entertainment Weekly he envisioned their enmity originating from a profound friendship: "I always imagined what it would be like: How did they end up such mortal enemies? And I always thought, what if he had this incredible friendship?" He emphasized the interplay: "You kind of get two origin stories for the price of one. ... If they hadn't met, Sherlock wouldn't have become the Sherlock that we know, and Moriarty wouldn't have become Moriarty."
Tiffin, playing young Sherlock, initially favored early conflict but now sees the setup as "really fun for people to watch."
This reimagining delves into 1870s Oxford adventures that shape both characters into Doyle's legendary figures, promising fresh insight into their dynamic.