BBC's Sherlock is, undoubtedly, a huge success globally. It has launched it's two lead stars, Benedict Cumberbatch and Martin Freeman, to fame and landing major Hollywood roles. The announcement of CBS's Elementary caused an uproar in fans of the show, and now executive producer (and wife of the show's head writer, Steven Moffat) has spoken out on the matter.
We understand that CBS are doing their own version of an updated Sherlock Holmes. It's interesting, as they approached us a while back about remaking our show. At the time, they made great assurances about their integrity, so we have to assume that their modernised Sherlock Holmes doesn't resemble ours in any way, as that would be extremely worrying. We are very proud of our show and like any proud parent, we have to protect the interest and wellbeing of our child.
The main reason for possible legal action is because of the modern day setting and the addition of regular uses of laptops, smartphones etc. Margaret Tofalides, a copyright specialist at law firm Manches, had this to say.
The concept of a new Sherlock Holmes is unprotectable. But if the unusual aspects of the BBC series - Modern settings, characters, clothes, plots and distinctive visual style - were closely reproduced in the CBS series, then that could form the basis of a potential copyright claim.
What do you think of this? Are you glad that the BBC are pursuing legal action, or are you interested in what CBS has to offer? Sound off in the usual place.