Benedict Cumberbatch returning as Sherlock? It’s a mystery

Benedict Cumberbatch had a ready answer when asked when he might star in another “Sherlock” on PBS. (Photo: Benedict Cumberbatch/Facebook)

PASADENA, Calif. — Benedict Cumberbatch had a ready answer when asked when he might star in another “Sherlock” on PBS.

“Goodbye,” he said, pleasantly, as he darted out of camera range during a satellite Q&A Wednesday.

Cumberbatch was speaking to TV critics from London about a very different drama he stars in and produced, “The Child in Time.” The TV movie, based on Ian McEwan’s novel about a couple whose child is kidnapped, co-stars Kelly Macdonald and debuts April 1 on public television stations.

Macdonald, who had flown in from her native Glasgow, Scotland, to promote the TV film, said she’d confessed to Cumberbatch that she was “a huge” fan of his modern-day Sherlock.

She’s got her own connection with the fictional British sleuth: Macdonald plays Sherlock’s housekeeper, Mrs. Hughes, opposite Will Ferrell’s detective and John C. Reilly’s Dr. Watson in the big-screen comedy “Holmes and Watson,” set for release later this year.

Cumberbatch was asked about how he manages a busy work schedule that includes the upcoming “Avengers: Infinity War” and launching a production company.

“Don’t worry, don’t worry,” he replied. “Worry’s like trying to get someone on a rocking horse. It’s a bit silly. “