Let’s be honest—anytime the name Watson hits your screen, you know you’re in for some serious sleuthing. But this time, it’s not just another Sherlock reboot. CBS’s upcoming drama Watson shifts the spotlight from the legendary detective to his equally compelling partner, Dr. John Watson.
And the best part? The Season 1 cast is absolutely stacked—from crime procedural veterans to fan-favorite newcomers. Ready to meet the stars behind the show? Let’s dig into who’s playing who and why you should care.
🎭 Meet the Main Cast of ‘Watson’ Season 1
Morris Chestnut as Dr. John Watson
Let’s start with the man himself. Morris Chestnut—yes, the same powerhouse from The Resident and Boyz n the Hood—is stepping into the iconic role of Dr. Watson. But forget everything you thought you knew.
This version of Watson is modern, sharp, and emotionally layered. A former army doctor turned detective, he’s dealing with grief after Sherlock’s mysterious death. Chestnut brings both charisma and quiet strength, perfectly balancing brains and heart.
Ritu Arya as Inspector Lestrade
Best known for her role in The Umbrella Academy, Ritu Arya plays Inspector Lestrade, and no—this is not your typical Scotland Yard type. In Watson, she’s a fast-talking, politically savvy force of nature.
Expect Lestrade to challenge Watson at every turn. Think of her as the moral compass and bureaucratic obstacle rolled into one sharp-suited package.
Tamera Tomakili as Mary Watson
From Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty, Tamera Tomakili plays Mary Watson, John’s late wife who appears through flashbacks and emotional memory sequences.
Her presence adds a haunting depth to the story, grounding Watson’s motivations and giving viewers insight into his vulnerable side. She’s not just a memory—she’s a driving force.
Peter Mark Kendall as Mycroft Holmes
You may recognize Peter Mark Kendall from The Americans. Here, he’s stepping into the refined shoes of Mycroft Holmes, Sherlock’s enigmatic older brother.
In this version, Mycroft is equal parts puppet master and grieving brother. Expect tense dynamics, old secrets, and sibling rivalry turned up to eleven.
Savannah Basley as Detective Jules Santiago
Here’s your wildcard. Savannah Basley, beloved from SurrealEstate, plays Detective Jules Santiago—a brash, no-nonsense cop with a dark sense of humor.
She’s the one with boots on the ground, solving cases alongside Watson. But don’t let her sarcasm fool you—she’s as sharp as they come and adds a fresh, gritty edge to the team.
Inga Schlingmann as FBI Agent Rachel Klein
You might’ve cheered for Inga Schlingmann in So Help Me Todd, and now she’s back with a vengeance. As Agent Rachel Klein, she brings federal heat to the local cases, often clashing with Watson’s more intuitive methods.
Rachel is cool, calculating, and all business, creating the kind of tension that keeps you guessing.
🔍 Breaking Down the Characters: Who’s Who and Why It Matters
Dr. John Watson – Not Just the Sidekick Anymore
This isn’t the Watson you’re used to. He’s the emotional backbone of the story. Watching him navigate life after Sherlock, while solving new mysteries, creates a gripping personal journey.
Inspector Lestrade – Authority with an Edge
No longer in Sherlock’s shadow, Lestrade’s character gets space to shine. Her conflict with Watson over procedure and gut instinct adds tension—and maybe even some chemistry.
Mary Watson – A Love That Still Haunts
Through intimate flashbacks, we get a glimpse into Watson’s past. Mary’s influence is ever-present, reminding us that this show has heart to match the brainy investigations.
Mycroft Holmes – The Puppet Master
He’s not just another Holmes. Mycroft is manipulative, mysterious, and possibly hiding more than a few skeletons. Expect him to stir up plenty of drama as the season unfolds.
Detective Jules Santiago – Street Smarts and Sass
She’s got attitude, wit, and raw instincts. Jules is the perfect foil to Watson’s polished intellect, keeping him grounded and sharp.
Agent Rachel Klein – The Federal Friction
Rachel’s presence ramps up the stakes. She’s here for national-level problems, and her rigid protocols clash with Watson’s improvisation, sparking some serious debates—and fireworks.
⚙️ The Chemistry: Why This Cast Just Works
Let’s face it—great storytelling is nothing without on-screen chemistry. This cast doesn’t just act; they vibe. Whether it’s emotional flashbacks or heated interrogations, every actor brings nuance and fire.
🎬 Behind the Scenes: What Makes ‘Watson’ Different
Unlike traditional Sherlock adaptations, Watson focuses on grief, recovery, and rediscovering purpose. The cases are smart, sure—but it’s the character-driven narrative that sets this show apart.
🌍 Diversity in Casting: A Fresh Take for a New Generation
Representation matters. And Watson delivers a cast that reflects modern, multicultural storytelling. Each character adds depth and brings a unique background to the narrative.
🧠 Smarter Mysteries, Richer Characters
Gone are the days of overused tropes. Watson is about nuanced mysteries that challenge both characters and viewers. The puzzles are complex, the stakes are personal, and the resolutions are oh-so-satisfying.
🎯 Who Will Love This Show? (Spoiler: Probably You)
If you’re a fan of:
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Sherlock Holmes lore
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Character-driven crime dramas
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Shows like FBI, Elementary, or Luther
…then Watson is your next obsession.
📝 Conclusion: A Must-Watch with Star Power & Soul
Watson isn’t just another detective series. It’s a reimagining of a beloved universe, told through new eyes, with a cast that absolutely slays. With six powerhouse actors, layered characters, and gripping cases, this show is geared to hook viewers and never let go.
So clear your schedule—Watson Season 1 is about to become your latest TV obsession.
