When British author Sir Arthur Ignatius Conan Doyle created the fictional detective Sherlock Holmes, he did not foresee how big the character would become.
Detective Holmes is known for his ability to solve cases using his intelligence and wit. Many films and TV series have been adapted based on the character of Detective Holmes.
One of the British TV adaptations, Sherlock Holmes (1984 – 1994), is lauded for having actors that faithfully embodied the characters as described in the original book series.
Jeremy Brett, despite being a veteran stage actor, is mostly remembered for his role as Sherlock Holmes for the 41 episodes that the series aired.
Jeremy logged countless hours mastering the role, and it eventually became a part of his life. There was no significant boundary between where Holmes ended and Brett began.
He was dedicated to the role, often immersing himself deeply in Holmes’s character, which led to exhaustion. So why, then did the actor stop playing Sherlock Holmes?
Jeremy Brett stopped playing Sherlock Holmes due to health and mental issues
It is reported that in 1986, Brett was diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder, and the diagnosis greatly impacted his professional and personal life.
The severe mood swings made it difficult for him to work, and the medication also changed his physical appearance. He began to put on weight and retained more fluid than normal.
The actor also had a history of heart issues, and he needed an oxygen tank on set to help him breathe. Additionally, his heavy smoking contributed to the further deterioration of his health.
He still managed to film the last episodes of the series despite his failing health.
Due to his frequent hospital visits and no signs of respite, it was decided that he would no longer portray Sherlock Holmes. By the time production was wrapping up, Jeremy had appeared visibly dishevelled by the mental and physical illness he was fighting.
Brett’s death and legacy
Eventually, on 12 September 1995, Jeremy succumbed to congestive heart failure at his home in Clapman, London. He was 61.
Jeremy Brett’s legacy as Sherlock Holmes remains unmatched. He continues to be considered as one of the definitive actors to have taken on the role.