The world of Victorian-era mysteries is about to get a fresh injection of youthful energy and clever sleuthing. Netflix has officially confirmed that Enola Holmes 3 is not only happening but is already deep into production, marking the next chapter in the beloved franchise based on Nancy Springer’s The Enola Holmes Mysteries book series. With Millie Bobby Brown reprising her role as the sharp-witted teenage detective Enola Holmes, the film promises more twists, turns, and family drama set against the backdrop of 19th-century England—and beyond. However, while six key stars from the previous installments are set to return, one notable actor appears to be absent from the cast list, leaving fans speculating about the future of the Holmes family dynamic.

Since its debut in 2020, the Enola Holmes series has captivated audiences with its blend of historical intrigue, feminist undertones, and Brown’s charismatic, fourth-wall-breaking performance. The first film introduced Enola as the overlooked younger sister of the legendary Sherlock Holmes, embarking on a quest to find her missing mother while unraveling a conspiracy. Its sequel, Enola Holmes 2 (2022), delved into real-life events like the 1888 Match Girls’ Strike, solidifying Enola’s place as a force in her own right. Now, with Enola Holmes 3 confirmed, the franchise is poised to expand its scope, taking Enola to new locations and pitting her against even deadlier foes. But let’s break down everything we know so far, from the latest production updates to the cast shake-ups and potential plot details.

Enola Holmes 3 Latest News

The road to Enola Holmes 3 has been a slow burn, but Netflix finally lit the fuse in late 2023 when Chairman Scott Stuber teased that a script was in development, praising Brown as one of the streamer’s “homegrown stars.” By November 2024, the project gained momentum with the announcement of Philip Barantini as director, replacing Harry Bradbeer who helmed the first two films. Barantini, known for his intense, one-take drama Adolescence, reportedly pitched a darker tone for the threequel, drawing comparisons to how Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban elevated its franchise.

Production kicked off in April 2025 in the UK, with Netflix sharing behind-the-scenes glimpses of Brown and co-star Louis Partridge on set, fueling excitement among fans. Filming has since wrapped in key locations, including Malta, where scenes were shot in July 2025, wrapping up that portion of the schedule. This international shift marks a departure from the London-centric settings of the previous films, hinting at a more globetrotting adventure. Jack Thorne, the screenwriter behind the first two entries, returns to pen the script, ensuring continuity in the series’ witty dialogue and historical flair.

As of August 2025, post-production is underway, with Netflix eyeing a potential 2026 release. Brown herself has been vocal about her enthusiasm, stating in interviews that she loves seeing Enola “put under pressure” and facing “crazy situations” that make her vulnerable. The confirmation comes at a pivotal time for Netflix’s original content slate, following the success of Brown’s other projects like Stranger Things and The Electric State. With the franchise’s global appeal—Enola Holmes 2 topped Netflix’s viewership charts with over 64 million hours streamed in its first week—the streamer is betting big on this third outing.

Enola Holmes 3 Cast: Who’s Returning & Who’s Missing

The cast of Enola Holmes 3 is a mix of familiar faces and potential new additions, but the spotlight is on the six confirmed returning stars who have become synonymous with the series. At the center is Millie Bobby Brown as Enola Holmes, the plucky protagonist whose blend of intelligence, rebellion, and charm has made her a modern icon. Brown’s performance has evolved across the films, from a wide-eyed runaway in the first to a confident detective in the sequel, and she’s expected to bring even more depth to Enola’s growth in this installment.

Joining her is Louis Partridge as Viscount Tewkesbury, Enola’s love interest and ally. Partridge’s chemistry with Brown was a highlight of Enola Holmes 2, where their budding romance added emotional stakes to the mystery. With the story teasing “personal and professional dreams colliding,” Tewkesbury’s role could expand, perhaps involving more action or romantic tension.

Henry Cavill returns as Sherlock Holmes, Enola’s enigmatic older brother. Cavill’s portrayal has been a fan-favorite twist on the classic detective—more brooding and physical than traditional interpretations—offering mentorship and sibling rivalry that grounds the series. His dynamic with Enola is sure to deepen, especially with shared threats on the horizon.

Helena Bonham Carter is back as Eudoria Holmes, the free-spirited mother whose disappearance kicked off the saga. Carter’s eccentric performance has added layers of feminist commentary, and her return promises more family secrets and maternal guidance.

Himesh Patel reprises Dr. John Watson, introduced in Enola Holmes 2‘s mid-credits scene as Sherlock’s flatmate. Patel’s brief appearance teased a larger role, potentially forming a detective trio with the Holmes siblings.

Finally, Sharon Duncan-Brewster returns as Moriarty, the cunning antagonist who escaped prison at the end of the sequel. Duncan-Brewster’s gender-swapped take on Sherlock’s nemesis brought fresh menace, and her comeback could elevate the stakes to franchise-high levels.

These six stars form the core of Enola Holmes 3, ensuring continuity and fan service. However, one actor is seemingly not starring: Sam Claflin, who played Mycroft Holmes in the first film. Claflin was absent from Enola Holmes 2 due to scheduling conflicts, and despite director Harry Bradbeer’s hope for his return—”If there was a future one we would love to have him back”—Mycroft is not listed in the confirmed cast. This omission could shift the family focus more toward Sherlock and Eudoria, or perhaps introduce new characters to fill the void. Claflin’s stern, traditional Mycroft provided comic relief and contrast in the original, so his potential absence might alter the tone, emphasizing Enola’s independence.

Other supporting actors like Susie Wokoma (Edith) and Adeel Akhtar (Lestrade) could return, though unconfirmed as of now. Netflix has teased new faces, but details remain under wraps, adding to the mystery.

Enola Holmes 3 Story Details: What To Expect

While Enola Holmes 3 draws inspiration from Nancy Springer’s books, the films have taken creative liberties, blending original plots with historical events. The official logline reveals: “Adventure chases detective Enola Holmes to Malta, where personal and professional dreams collide on a case more tangled and treacherous than any she has faced before.” This marks a bold expansion, moving beyond London to the Mediterranean island, known for its rich history and strategic importance in the Victorian era.

The story could adapt elements from Springer’s third book, The Case of the Bizarre Bouquets, where Enola searches for a missing Dr. Watson while evading finishing school. Given Watson’s introduction in the sequel, this aligns perfectly, potentially involving a kidnapping or conspiracy tied to Moriarty’s escape. The Malta setting suggests international intrigue—perhaps involving espionage, ancient artifacts, or colonial tensions—fitting the era’s geopolitical landscape.

Enola’s relationship with Tewkesbury will likely evolve, balancing romance with her detective career. Sherlock’s involvement could lead to more collaborative sleuthing, exploring sibling bonds and rivalries. Eudoria’s radical suffragette background might tie into broader themes of women’s rights, echoing the series’ empowering message.

Moriarty’s return as the big bad promises high-stakes confrontations, with Duncan-Brewster’s character potentially orchestrating a web of deceit from afar. The darker tone pitched by Barantini could introduce more peril, vulnerability for Enola, and moral complexities, elevating the franchise from lighthearted mystery to gripping thriller.

Recapping the previous films provides context: In Enola Holmes, Enola flees home to find her mother, uncovers a plot against Tewkesbury, and thwarts a bombing, establishing her as a detective. Enola Holmes 2 sees her investigating factory corruption, inspiring the Match Girls’ Strike, and facing Moriarty’s machinations. The sequel ended on a high note with Enola opening her agency and Watson’s arrival, setting up alliances for the threequel.

Fans speculate on crossovers with other Sherlock adaptations, but the series’ standalone nature keeps it fresh. With Thorne’s script, expect clever puzzles, historical nods, and Enola’s signature narration breaking the fourth wall.

Enola Holmes 3 Release Date Predictions

Netflix hasn’t announced an exact release date, but patterns from the past offer clues. Enola Holmes dropped in September 2020, followed by the sequel in November 2022—a two-year gap. With production starting in April 2025 and wrapping segments by July, post-production could wrap by early 2026, targeting a fall release that year. This aligns with Netflix’s strategy for tentpole originals, potentially tying into awards season buzz.

Delays could push it to 2027, but Brown’s packed schedule—including Stranger Things 5 wrapping—suggests Netflix is prioritizing a swift turnaround.

Enola Holmes 3 Trailer: When Will It Drop?

No trailer yet, as filming only recently concluded in Malta. Expect a teaser in early 2026 if the release is fall-bound, showcasing the new setting and cast. Netflix often drops first looks via Tudum events, so keep an eye out.

Why Sam Claflin’s Absence Matters

Claflin’s Mycroft was a foil in the first film—stuffy, patriarchal, and hilariously outmatched by Enola. His non-return could streamline the narrative, focusing on Enola’s growth without the overbearing brother trope. Yet, it leaves a gap in the Holmes trio, potentially explored through dialogue or flashbacks. Fans hope for a cameo, but for now, it’s a notable shift.

The Future of the Enola Holmes Franchise

With nine books in Springer’s series, there’s ample material for more films. Brown’s passion for the role suggests longevity, and Netflix’s investment points to a potential ongoing saga. Enola Holmes 3 could be the Prisoner of Azkaban moment—darker, bolder, and setting up even grander mysteries.

In summary, Enola Holmes 3 is shaping up as a thrilling evolution, with six returning stars anchoring the cast amid one key absence. As Enola ventures to Malta for her most dangerous case yet, fans can anticipate a blend of heart, humor, and high-stakes detection that cements the series’ place in Netflix’s pantheon.