The actor is diving back into the world of murder mysteries in Seven Dials.
As Martin Freeman gears up to bring one of Agatha Christie’s detectives to life in Seven Dials, the actor has opened up about who his favourite fictional detective on TV is.
Speaking to Radio Times Magazine, the Sherlock star – who is set to play Superintendent Battle in the upcoming Netflix adaptation of Christie’s novel – said: “I love the brilliance and arrogance of Sherlock Holmes, and how he’s so far ahead of everyone else in the room."
Freeman, who played Mr Holmes loyal partner and friend, Dr John Watson, in Sherlock, added: "I also like Columbo; the way people underestimate him, and he takes advantage of that. It’s such a great device having a detective leave the room then turn around and say, 'One more thing…'."
He continued: "I also love him having to deal with people of a higher social class. Battle’s the same, he’s not from an aristocratic background. It’s the revenge of the little guy or gal.”
Seven Dials stars How to Have Sex's Mia McKenna-Bruce in the lead role as Lady Eileen 'Bundle' Brent, whose life comes crashing down following an unexpected murder, while the likes of Helena Bonham Carter, Martin Freeman, Corey Mylchreest, Ed Bluemel and Nabhaan Rizwan also star.
Speaking about what drew him to the adaptation, which comes from a script penned by former Doctor Who showrunner Chris Chibnall, Freeman added: "Chris’s scripts bring it up to date in a way that feels relatable without trying to be hip and cool. It has a contemporary feel, while not cheating on the period.
"I didn’t really grow up with Christie, but the character of Bundle surprised me because she’s much younger than Marple and Poirot."
The latest issue of Radio Times magazine is out now.
Agatha Christie’s Seven Dials will launch on Netflix on 15th January 2026. Sign up for Netflix from £5.99 a month. Netflix is also available on Sky Glass and Virgin Media Stream.
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Molly Moss is a Trends Writer for Radio Times, covering the latest trends across TV, film and more. She has an MA in Newspaper Journalism and has previously written for publications including The Guardian, The Times and The Sun Online.
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