When people think of Henry Cavill, his name is almost synonymous with Superman. His portrayal of the iconic DC Comics hero in Man of Steel brought him into the global spotlight, defining his career for over a decade. However, while his role as the Last Son of Krypton remains his most famous, Cavill’s diverse portfolio offers another performance that could soon rival his Superman legacy. Enter Enola Holmes—a Netflix franchise that’s gradually gaining attention, with Cavill in the role of none other than Sherlock Holmes.

While Cavill isn’t the lead in the Enola Holmes series, his portrayal of the famous detective has intrigued fans and critics alike. In contrast to the more action-packed and physical demands of Superman, his Sherlock Holmes is a quieter, more introspective character, which shows Cavill’s versatility. Sherlock Holmes, in this iteration, isn’t just the brilliant investigator we know, but also the older brother of Enola Holmes, played by Millie Bobby Brown. His role offers more than just intellectual prowess—it brings a layered dynamic of mentorship and sibling protection to the table.

In Enola Holmes and its sequel, Cavill’s Sherlock walks the fine line between a guiding brother and a figure of restraint, encouraging Enola to carve out her own path in Victorian London’s crime-solving world while defending her from their strict brother, Mycroft. Cavill’s restrained, composed portrayal of Sherlock contrasts with his other famous roles, offering a unique take on the character—one that’s softer, more humane, yet still brilliant.

With Enola Holmes 3 currently in the works, Cavill’s tenure as Sherlock Holmes is on the brink of potentially matching his run as Superman in terms of franchise longevity. Though the Enola Holmes films may not carry the same high-flying action as Man of Steel or Justice League, Cavill’s performance as Sherlock carries its own kind of weight—subtle, thoughtful, and equally iconic in its own right.

This shift from the action-heavy world of superheroes to the quiet brilliance of detective work highlights Cavill’s growing range as an actor. As Sherlock Holmes, Cavill proves that he can embody yet another legendary figure, all while adding depth to a character that has seen countless iterations on screen.

With Enola Holmes 3 soon to bring back Cavill’s Sherlock, it’s only a matter of time before fans start seeing this role on par with his Superman legacy.