12 Times Sherlock Holmes Showed Up in Pop Culture in the Most Unexpected Ways—Perfect for Sherlock Holmes Day
Sherlock Holmes has appeared in pop culture in some of the most unexpected and funny ways, from cartoons to sci-fi shows.
- Daisy Montero
- 3 min read
Sherlock Holmes is not just a serious detective in books. He has also appeared in cartoons, comedies, and futuristic shows. This list shows 12 surprising times he showed up in pop culture, often in funny or unusual ways. These moments prove that people still love Holmes, no matter how he is portrayed.
1. Data Becomes Sherlock Holmes in Star Trek: The Next Generation
Roddenberry Entertainment Inc. on Wikimedia Commons
In the episodes “Elementary, Dear Data” and “Ship in a Bottle,” Android Data immerses himself in the holodeck. His adventures led to the creation of a self-aware Moriarty, blending classic detective tales with futuristic sci-fi.
2. VeggieTales Presents Sheerluck Holmes
Big Idea Entertainment on Wikimedia Commons
In a playful twist, Larry the Cucumber dons the deerstalker as Sheerluck Holmes, solving mysteries with Bob the Tomato as Dr. Watson. This adaptation focused on a younger audience with humor and moral lessons.
3. Shedlock Jones in DuckTales
File:Ducktales 80s logo.png: The Walt Disney Company on Wikimedia Commons
In the episode “Dr. Jekyll & Mr. McDuck,” Scrooge McDuck and his nephews encounter Shedlock Jones. This clever nod adds a layer of mystery and fun to the beloved animated series.
4. Stewie Griffin Channels Holmes in Family Guy
StewieGriffin! on Wikimedia Commons
In the episode “V Is for Mystery,” Stewie takes on the role of Sherlock Holmes, with Brian as Dr. Watson. This parody infuses the classic detective narrative with the show’s signature irreverent humor.
5. Candace Goes Full Holmes in Phineas and Ferb
Ivanovick solano on Wikimedia Commons
In “Elementary My Dear Stacy,” Candace adopts Sherlock Holmes’ persona to solve a mystery, complete with the iconic hat and pipe. This episode showcases her determination and the show’s creative storytelling.
6. Holmes Time-Travels in BraveStarr
Special Collections Toronto Public Library on Wikimedia Commons
In a futuristic twist, Sherlock Holmes is transported to the 23rd century in the animated series BravesStarr. Teaming up with new allies, he tackles space-age mysteries, proving his detective skills are timeless.
7. Wax Holmes Comes Alive in Gravity Falls
Disney Television Animation on Wikimedia Commons
In the episode “Headhunters,” a wax figure of Sherlock Holmes springs to life, leading a group of wax figures in a mischievous plot. This eerie yet humorous portrayal adds a supernatural twist to the detective’s legacy.
8. Holmes Helps Timmy in The Fairly OddParents
Nickelodeon on Wikimedia Commons
In “Shelf Life,” Timmy Turner summons Sherlock Holmes to assist with a book report. The detective’s brief appearance adds a witty and educational touch to the episode’s narrative.
9. A Delusional Holmes in Murdoch Mysteries
Unknown author on Wikimedia Commons
In “A Study in Sherlock,” David Kingsley believes himself to be Sherlock Holmes, assisting Detective Murdoch in solving crimes. This portrayal explores the fine line between genius and delusion.
10. Holmes Joins the Mystery Gang in Scooby-Doo and Guess Who?
Warner Bros. Television on Wikimedia Commons
In “Elementary, My Dear Shaggy,” the gang teams up with a man claiming to be Sherlock Holmes to solve a spooky mystery in London. This crossover blends classic detective work with Scooby-Doo’s signature humor.
11. Goofy Becomes Sherlock in Goof Troop
Disney Television Animation on Wikimedia Commons
In “Sherlock Goof,” Goofy takes on the role of a Holmes-like detective, solving mysteries with his characteristic clumsiness. This episode offers a lighthearted homage to the famed sleuth.
12. Sureluck Jones Inspires Chip in Rescue Rangers
The Walt Disney Company on Wikimedia Commons
In “Pound of the Baskervilles,” Chip idolizes the fictional detective Sureluck Jones, leading the team on a mystery-solving adventure. This parody celebrates Holmes’ influence on aspiring detectives.