Guy Ritchie's Young Sherlock Earns a Rare Perfect 100% on Rotten Tomatoes

Guy Ritchie is back in Sherlock territory, but not with the sequel people have been waiting on. Instead of a straight-up Sherlock Holmes 3, he has shepherded an origin story series that sounded like a questionable detour on paper. Turns out, not so much. Early reactions say the new show slaps.

So what is Young Sherlock?

It is exactly what the title promises: a teenage Sherlock Holmes getting thrown into his first major mystery. Hero Fiennes Tiffin plays a 19-year-old version of the detective, and the whole thing leans into a punchier, more irreverent vibe than the classic takes. Matthew Parkhill runs the show, and Ritchie is on board as an executive producer, keeping the tone quick, stylish, and a little cocky.

The surprising part: critics are into it

The first wave of reviews landed and the series debuted with a spotless 100% score on Rotten Tomatoes. Early write-ups praise how it updates a 139-year-old character for the here and now without losing the bite that makes Sherlock, well, Sherlock.

"A terrific mystery wrapped in intrigue, family drama and delightful wit, 'Young Sherlock' is a compelling origin story that brings a classic character to life. This time, though, he is spry and bold enough for our fast-paced 21st-century world."

One early review even went with a single-word verdict: "Perfect."

What to expect

• Lead: Hero Fiennes Tiffin as a sharp, still-forming Sherlock at 19
• Creative: Showrun by Matthew Parkhill, with Guy Ritchie executive producing
• Tone: Action-forward, irreverent, and built around a layered mystery
• Early reception: An unexpectedly glowing start, including that 100% debut score

Is it the Holmes threequel fans have been waiting on? No. But if the first round of reactions is any clue, this detour might be worth taking. More as the case unfolds.