Warner Bros. TV Series: James Moriarty Crime Procedural in Development With Detective Imogen Burrows

A new crime procedural series centered on Sherlock Holmes’ arch-nemesis, Professor James Moriarty, is in development, marking the latest twist in the enduring legacy of Arthur Conan Doyle’s most infamous villain. Produced by Fremantle and Archery Pictures—known for hits like *Operation Mincemeat*—the project, titled *Moriarty*, will be written by Chris Cornwell (*Strike Back*, *A Discovery of Witches*) and Oliver Lansley (*Flack*, *Where’s Wanda?*).

What’s Happening in the Series?

The show reimagines Moriarty not as a shadowy mastermind lurking in London’s fog but as a respected Professor of Criminal Psychology at Durham University, secretly orchestrating England’s most sophisticated crimes from the North. When a rival criminal faction threatens his empire, Moriarty makes a calculated move: he joins the police as a consultant, leveraging the law to dismantle his enemy while hiding his true identity. His unlikely partner is Detective Imogen Burrows, a stoic Yorkshire detective whose skepticism may prove his greatest challenge.

As the plot unfolds, Moriarty discovers the real danger lies not in the criminal he’s dismantling but in forces far more unpredictable. The series promises a fresh take on the character, blending procedural elements with the psychological depth that has defined past adaptations.

Why This Matters

Moriarty’s return to the screen arrives at a pivotal moment for Holmes adaptations. CBS recently cancelled *Watson*, a series that featured Randall Park in a Moriarty-inspired role, while Amazon’s *Young Sherlock* earlier this year included Dónal Finn’s portrayal of a young Moriarty, which resonated strongly with audiences. The character’s enduring appeal—from Jared Harris’ chilling performance in *Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows* (2011) to Andrew Scott’s iconic run in the BBC’s *Sherlock*—underscores his status as one of literature’s most compelling antagonists.

This new series could redefine Moriarty for a modern audience, shifting the focus from his rivalry with Holmes to a more complex, self-serving protagonist navigating the blurred lines between criminal genius and law enforcement. The collaboration between Cornwell and Lansley, both known for sharp, character-driven storytelling, suggests a nuanced exploration of the character’s duality.

Did You Know? Moriarty’s secret double life as both an academic and a criminal mastermind draws inspiration from real-world figures like the “Professor” in Arthur Conan Doyle’s original stories—a villain whose intellectual superiority made him Holmes’ greatest intellectual equal.

A Possible Next Chapter for the Character

If the series gains traction, it could open doors for Moriarty to interact with other Holmes adaptations in the future, particularly if Warner Bros. Pictures—credited in the project’s promotional materials—chooses to expand the universe. A standalone Moriarty series might also pave the way for spin-offs or crossover narratives, especially given the character’s historical ties to Holmes.

Moriarty – teaser trailer

Casting will be critical to the project’s success. Past portrayals have ranged from Harris’ menacing presence to Scott’s layered performance, each shaping public perception of the character. The choice of actor could determine whether this version of Moriarty leans into his academic charm, his ruthless ambition, or a blend of both.

Expert Insight: Moriarty’s appeal lies in his ambiguity—a villain who is as much a product of his environment as his own cunning. This series risks either deepening that complexity or reducing him to a procedural antagonist. The real test will be whether the writers balance his intellectual brilliance with the moral gray areas that make him fascinating. A strong performance could redefine the character for a new generation, while a misstep might leave him as just another Holmes sidekick.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is developing the Moriarty series?

The series is being produced by Fremantle and Archery Pictures, with writers Chris Cornwell and Oliver Lansley attached.

Frequently Asked Questions — Sherlock Holmes

How does this version of Moriarty differ from previous portrayals?

Unlike past adaptations where Moriarty was a shadowy criminal mastermind, this version positions him as a Professor of Criminal Psychology at Durham University with a hidden criminal empire in the North of England.

Will Sherlock Holmes appear in this series?

The source does not mention Sherlock Holmes appearing in this series, focusing instead on Moriarty’s standalone story.

With Moriarty’s legacy as vast as it is controversial, this series could either cement his place as a modern antihero or challenge long-held perceptions of one of literature’s most enduring villains. What do you think—should Moriarty’s story stand alone, or would you prefer to see him clash with Holmes once more?