Robert Downey Jr hands ‘Sherlock Holmes 3’ decision to wife Susan Downey

Robert Downey Jr has once again sparked speculation about the future of the Sherlock Holmes franchise after revealing that his wife and producing partner Susan Downey will ultimately decide whether a third film finally moves forward.

During a recent Associated Press interview published on May 19, 2026, the actor was asked about the long delayed continuation of the detective series that began with Guy Ritchie’s 2009 blockbuster Sherlock Holmes. Rather than confirming development plans, Downey leaned into the uncertainty surrounding the project and described the situation as “the greatest mystery.”

Susan Downey, who has produced both previous films through Team Downey, appeared alongside her husband during the interview. The pair stopped short of officially announcing a third instalment, though their comments immediately reignited excitement among fans who have waited more than a decade to see Downey return as Arthur Conan Doyle’s famous detective.

The original Sherlock Holmes film arrived in 2009 and became a major commercial success, grossing more than $500m worldwide. Its sequel, Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows, followed in 2011 with Jude Law reprising his role as Dr John Watson. Since then, rumours surrounding a third film have repeatedly surfaced, but the project has struggled to reach production despite years of reported development.

At various points, different writers and directors were attached to the sequel. Warner Bros previously announced release dates that were later removed from the schedule, while Downey’s increasing commitments to the Marvel Cinematic Universe also contributed to delays. Fans have continued to campaign online for the franchise’s return, especially after Downey stepped away from Marvel following Avengers: Endgame.

Social media users reacted quickly to the actor’s latest comments, with many joking that Susan Downey now has “the final clue” to solve. Others praised the couple’s long running creative partnership, which has produced projects including Perry Mason and The Sympathizer alongside the Sherlock Holmes films.

Some fans expressed frustration over the lack of concrete updates after so many years of speculation. Posts across X and Reddit questioned why Warner Bros still has not officially confirmed the sequel despite continued public interest in the franchise and the chemistry between Downey and Law.

Downey’s remarks arrive during a busy period for the actor, who remains one of Hollywood’s most recognisable stars. Earlier this year, Marvel confirmed that he would return to the superhero world in a new role as Doctor Doom, a casting announcement that generated intense online discussion.

Even without an official green light, Downey’s latest comments have revived hopes that Sherlock Holmes 3 could eventually become reality. For now, however, the mystery appears to remain unsolved, with Susan Downey seemingly holding the answer fans have been waiting years to hear.