The tension is palpable as CBS's medical mystery drama "Watson" approaches its Season 1 finale, airing this Sunday, May 11, 2025. The stakes have never been higher for Dr. John Watson, played by Morris Chestnut, as he faces off against his arch-nemesis, Moriarty (Randall Park), whose devious machinations have put the lives of Watson's closest allies in jeopardy.
In the penultimate episode, titled "My Life’s Work, Part 1," twin brothers and researchers, Dr. Stephens and Dr. Adam Croft, portrayed by Peter Mark Kendall, fall into comas due to a virus unleashed by Moriarty's scheme. This sinister plot not only targets Watson's team but also leaves Watson with a heartbreaking dilemma: he has just enough experimental serum to save only one of the brothers. As the clock ticks down, Watson is forced to confront the harsh reality of his choices.
Inga Schlingmann, who plays Sasha, expressed her bias in favor of saving Stephens, saying, "As someone who may or may not be in love with Stephens, I would definitely say ‘Stephens.'" Meanwhile, Eve Harlow, who portrays Ingrid, humorously stated, "I have to pick Adams, because I live in Los Angeles, and I’m really into all the woo-woo s–t." This light-hearted banter among the cast reflects the emotional weight of the situation, providing a glimpse into the characters' relationships.
As the finale approaches, viewers are also set to meet Tika Sumpter, known for her roles in "The Haves and the Have Nots" and "One Life to Live," who will join the cast as Laila, a pediatric oncologist who catches Watson's eye. Her introduction promises to add another layer of complexity to the narrative as Watson navigates both personal and professional challenges.
Series creator Craig Sweeny, a Pittsburgh native, has crafted a show that not only pays homage to the Sherlock Holmes legacy but also intertwines the local culture of Pittsburgh throughout its storytelling. The series premiered in January 2025, featuring scenes filmed in the city, including a pivotal confrontation on the iconic Duquesne Incline. However, due to budget constraints, the finale's incline scene was recreated in Vancouver, Canada, where the majority of the series is filmed.
Sweeny explained the decision, stating, "When you get to the end of a season of a first season show, you’ve spent everything they’ve offered to you, and in most cases, more, so it was simply not realistic for me to go and say, ‘Hey, let’s shoot this (in Pittsburgh).’" He credited production designer Dustin Farrell for successfully recreating the incline on set, ensuring that the show's aesthetic remains true to its Pittsburgh roots.
As the narrative unfolds, the dynamics among Watson's team are tested. Sweeny noted, "The immediate stakes are the sick characters, but the other thing to be tracking is: Can the dynamics that hopefully you’ve come to enjoy over the course of the season survive?" The finale is expected to resolve some ongoing plotlines while leaving viewers with lingering questions about the characters' futures.
In a recent interview, Morris Chestnut shared insights into portraying the iconic character of John Watson, emphasizing the influence of Sherlock Holmes on his character's development. He acknowledged the challenge of balancing the legacy of Watson with the need to create a unique interpretation. "If it was just Watson, the former military doc without the investigative influence from Sherlock, I think it would have been just a different show," Chestnut explained.
Chestnut's Watson is not only a skilled physician but also a war veteran, a detail that adds depth to his character. He reflected on how this background influences his portrayal, stating, "I'm always trying to redeem myself. I'm trying to redeem myself with my [former wife Mary Morstan]." This internal struggle becomes particularly poignant as Watson grapples with the lives of those he cares about, including the Croft brothers, who are now at risk due to Moriarty's machinations.
As the season finale approaches, viewers are left to ponder how far Watson will go to protect his team and confront Moriarty. Chestnut hinted at the moral complexities Watson faces, stating, "Would he do something to relieve the earth of Moriarty’s torment? That's a question that remains to be seen." This adds a layer of suspense as fans eagerly await the resolution of the season's cliffhangers.
With CBS already renewing "Watson" for a second season set to premiere in early 2026, fans can look forward to more thrilling mysteries and character developments. The writers have reconvened to break stories for the new season, with filming scheduled to begin in mid-June in Vancouver. Sweeny expressed hope of returning to Pittsburgh for exterior scenes, emphasizing his commitment to showcasing the city's unique culture and atmosphere.
As the series continues to evolve, it remains to be seen how the relationships and dynamics established in Season 1 will carry over into the next chapter. Sweeny has made it clear that the show will retain its serialized storytelling style, blending case-of-the-week medical mysteries with overarching plots that keep viewers engaged.
As fans prepare for the Season 1 finale, the anticipation is palpable. Will Watson be able to save one of the Croft brothers? How will he confront Moriarty? With so many questions left unanswered, viewers are in for a thrilling conclusion to a season filled with intrigue, drama, and unexpected twists.
Don't miss the Season 1 finale of "Watson" this Sunday at 9 PM on CBS, with the episode available for streaming on Paramount+ the following day.
