'Rocketman' Helmer Dexter Fletcher Signed To Direct Robert Downey, Jr. In 'Sherlock Holmes 3'

After most accounts from those on the set of “Bohemian Rhapsody” thanked director Dexter Fletcher for saving the musical drama and helping it earn over $900 million worldwide, it appeared that the filmmaker could write his own ticket for what he would work on next. That notion was further solidified when his latest musical drama “Rocketman” earned rave reviews and respectable box office. Well, for his next project, it appears that Fletcher is leaving rock stars behind and, instead, wants to tackle a new legendary Englishman in “Sherlock Holmes 3.”

That’s right, the long-awaited “Sherlock Holmes 3” is back on track with Dexter Fletcher taking over the helming duties from outgoing director Guy Ritchie, according to Variety. And with the announcement of a new director, along with stars Robert Downey, Jr and Jude Law returning, it seems like the latest installment in the action-comedy series is on track for its late-2021 release date. Also returning to the fold is Susan Downey, who along with her actor-husband, will produce the film as part of Team Downey.

READ MORE: Dexter Fletcher Admits To Almost Including A Rami Malek/Freddie Mercury Cameo In ‘Rocketman’

As mentioned, Fletcher is taking over for Ritchie, who is the man responsible for the first two films, “Sherlock Holmes” and its sequel, ‘A Game of Shadows,’ respectively. Both films saw RDJ take over as the title detective as he teamed up with his trusty sidekick Watson (Law) to solve crimes and generally have fun adventures.

While it’s been years since the last film, which was released in 2011, Warner Bros. is said to have always been pushing for a sequel. However, after 2011, a funny thing happened — Robert Downey, Jr became the biggest actor in the world thanks to his run as Tony Stark, aka Iron Man, in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. And since the last ‘Sherlock,’ non-Iron Man roles have been few and far between for RDJ. But now that the whole Marvel thing is behind him, the actor can go back to his other popular franchise.

READ MORE: Jon Favreau Believes That Robert Downey, Jr. Deserves Oscar Love For ‘Avengers’: “He Has My Vote, For Sure”

While we’re unsure when production will begin, WB already has a release date carved out for the latest ‘Sherlock Holmes’ film. If all goes to plan, “Sherlock Holmes 3” will arrive in theaters on December 21, 2021.