DO YOU KNOW .........

..... Which literary character has been portrayed more than any other?

Here are some clues?

• The characters first appeared in the 1887 novel, A Study In Scarlet.
• It is believed they were first depicted on screen in a 30 second silent movie in the 1890's.
• They have been portrayed a record-breaking 54 times on film and tv.
• More than 75 actors have played the main role.
• The original stories numbered 4 novels and 56 short stories.
• The 'latest novel', commissioned by the author's estate, was published some 81 years after the original authors death. (Click HERE to see my review).

Need another clue? 

Yes, it really is elementary my dear Watson, the answer is, of course ........

Sherlock Holmes as written by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle.

Those who have played the part include (from top, l to r) Michael Caine, Christopher Lee, Ian Richardson, Jeremy Brett, Roger Moore, Benedict Cumberbatch, Peter Cushing, Rupert Everett, Robert Downey Jr and (far left) Basil Rathbone.

Basil Rathbone, Jeremy Brett, Benedict Cumberbatch, Robert Downey Jr, Tom Baker... the full list of actors who have taken on the role of Sherlock Holmes is so long that the super sleuth himself might struggle to remember all the names.

To celebrate the DVD release of Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows, Guinness World Records, which awarded Holmes the record, called him a ‘literary institution’.

Claire Burgess, a Guinness adjudicator, said: ‘This title reflects his enduring appeal and demonstrates that his detective talents are as compelling today as they were 125 years ago.’ 

- The MailOnline (May 2012)

To read the full article and to see the complete list of actors who have played Holmes click HERE.

A fan of Holmes and Watson, which is your favourite book/favourite actor to play the part? And, if not Holmes and Watson, who is/are your favourite detective(s)?