The executive producer of "Elementary," Rob Doherty, revealed that season 5 is going to explore brand new avenues regarding how Sherlock (Jonny Lee Miller) and Joan (Lucy Liu) go after their targets. According to Doherty, the crime-fighting duo will be trying to reform an ex-convict in the premiere.
In an interview with TV Line, the EP further stated that the premiere episode will introduce the character Shinwell, portrayed by Nelsan Ellis. Shinwell first appeared in the 1924 "Sherlock Holmes" story "The Illustrious Client" and is an original creation by famed author Sir Arthur Conan Doyle.
The report further reveals that Joan had known Shinwell as a man trying to get his life back together after spending time in prison for drug-related crimes. Joan had saved his life in the past when she was still working as a surgeon.
"While this is a crime-based show, and we've met a lot of criminals, we've never really stopped to take the time to get to know and maybe even reform one," Doherty explained. "Sherlock and Joan will go into a relationship with Shinwell with the best of intentions," he added.
TV Line also reveals that the premiere episode, "Folie a Deux," involves Sherlock, Joan, and the NYPD working together to stop a bomber who had been dormant for several years. In order to solve the case, Joan will ask help from Shinwell.
However, the duo will discover that it is a very different experience working with a former prisoner, and this will affect how this new case is dealt with.
Shinwell is also confirmed to appear in at least two more episodes, implying that he may be killed off later in season 5 or that he may fail his attempts of reforming his life and eventually get caught by Sherlock for committing a new crime. It is also possible he will simply be able to walk away and live a peaceful life away from drugs and crime.
"Elementary" season 5 is scheduled to premiere on Sunday, Oct. 2, at 10 p.m. ET on CBS.
