When viewers tune in to BBC's Sherlock, it's hard to imagine a world of characters that doesn't include the likes of Benedict Cumberatch as Sherlock.

Although the respective scenario is indeed far-fetched, Sherlock writer Steve Thompson recently admitted to Doctor Who Magazine that he indeed had intentions of doing a complete episode without Cumberbatch.

"I wanted [...] to do an entire episode without Benedict in it at all," he explained.

Thompson also stated that he was aiming at doing an installment that centered around a younger version of the popular character, which clearly wouldn't be feasible for the 37-year-old actor to portray.

"I wanted to do [an episode about] young Sherlock. I wanted him to be nine [...] I was just trying to think of a way of surprising everyone," he said.

The writer now admits that an episode without Cumberbatch most likely wouldn't bode well for its audience.

"This is the most surprising thing possible: 'Ben's not going to be in it!' I told them. I must've been drunk or something. Benedict's amazing; how could we suggest it?'" Thompson added.

Interesting to note, it's now been two years since the TV series was last seen with new episodes on the small screen. Be sure to keep checking back for more of the latest information on the program.

More premiere date chatter as well as Christmas Special discussion here

Tags
Sherlock, Television, BBC