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(Dr Henry Lee, Forensic Scientist, New Haven, CT. Credit: Love Productions)
HOW SHERLOCK CHANGED THE WORLD
EXPLORES THE IMPACT OF THE LEGENDARY DETECTIVE ON CRIMINAL INVESTIGATION
Two-Hour Special Assessing the Influence of the Fictional Detective on Real Forensic Techniques Slated for Fall 2013 on PBS
PASADENA, CA; JANUARY 14, 2013 Today at the Television Critics Association meeting, PBS announced the premiere of HOW SHERLOCK CHANGED THE WORLD, a two-hour special about the world's most legendary fictional detective Sherlock Holmes. The special will reveal for the first time the astonishing impact that Holmes has had on the development of real criminal investigation and forensic techniques. The program is slated to premiere in fall 2013 on PBS.
Sherlock Holmes is, without doubt, the most famous fictional detective the world has ever known. HOW SHERLOCK CHANGED THE WORLD will show that Conan Doyle's hero not only revolutionized the world of fiction, but also changed the real world in more ways than many realize. Holmes was a scientist who used chemistry, fingerprints and bloodstains to catch an offender in an era when eyewitness reports and smoking gun evidence were needed to convict criminals, and police incompetence meant that Jack the Ripper stalked the streets freely. In many ways, the modern detective can be seen as a direct extension of Conan Doyle's literary genius.
We are delighted to bring this exclusive special about Sherlock Holmes to PBS, said Beth Hoppe, Chief Programming Executive and General Manager of General Audience Programming for PBS. HOW SHERLOCK CHANGED THE WORLD takes Conan Doyle's creation from fiction to reality, revealing the real-life importance of Holmes as a revolutionary crime fighter.
It is clear, especially of late, the lasting impact that Holmes has had, both nationally and internationally, added Trish Powell, Executive Producer at Love Productions, the studio behind the special. The worldwide success of the BBC drama on MASTERPIECE MYSTERY! and recent box-office hits Sherlock Holmes and Sherlock Holmes: Game of Shadows have proven Holmes to be a timeless source of entertainment. With this recent resurgence of interest, it is a perfect time to present this Sherlock Holmes special that demonstrates how the character was a catalyst for meaningful advancement and change in the field of criminal investigation and forensic science.
Through the use of compelling archival material and reconstruction, HOW SHERLOCK CHANGED THE WORLD tells the true stories of the scientists, detectives and even criminals who were inspired or influenced by the legend of Holmes. The program explores real crimes that were solved thanks to a piece of equipment Holmes used, a technique he popularized or invented, or even his method of reasoning. The special will also assess the history of Holmes' techniques from the 1880s to the present, showing how the scientific techniques Holmes introduced to the world have evolved into the stunning CSI-style forensic labs of Scotland Yard and the FBI.
Sherlock Holmes is the grandfather of forensic science, states top forensic scientist Dr. Henry Lee. Today when I go to a crime scene I use his logic, his method of deduction. That's how we do it today, solving cases based on Sherlock Holmes' logic.
HOW SHERLOCK CHANGED THE WORLD will demonstrate how the legacy of Holmes, as the first crime profiler, was not solely a reservoir of brilliant stories and wonderfully drawn characters, but that it has saved lives and led to the capture of some of the worst criminals in modern history.
PRODUCTION CREDITS
Executive Producer: Trish Powell; Director: Paul Bernays
A production of Love Productions, 2013
About PBS
PBS, with its nearly 360 member stations, offers all Americans the opportunity to explore new ideas and new worlds through television and online content. Each month, PBS reaches nearly 123 million people through television and more than 21 million people online, inviting them to experience the worlds of science, history, nature and public affairs; to hear diverse viewpoints; and to take front row seats to world-class drama and performances. PBS' broad array of programs has been consistently honored by the industry's most coveted award competitions. Teachers of children from pre-K through 12th grade turn to PBS for digital content and services that help bring classroom lessons to life. PBS' premier children's TV programming and its website, pbskids.org, are parents' and teachers' most trusted partners in inspiring and nurturing curiosity and love of learning in children. More information about PBS is available at www.pbs.org, one of the leading dot-org websites on the Internet, or by following PBS on Twitter, Facebook or through our apps for mobile devices. Specific program information and updates for press are available at pbs.org/pressroom or by following PBS Pressroom on Twitter.
PBS
CONTACTS:
John Michael Kennedy / Caroline Capute, Goodman Media International: 212-576-2700; PBSProgramming@goodmanmedia.com
Carrie Johnson, PBS; cjohnson@pbs.org or 703-739-5129
For images and additional up-to-date information on this and other PBS programs, visit PBS PressRoom at pbs.org/pressroom.
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