It would be understandable to think that Sherlock primarily focused on solving crimes. But the show also paid a lot of attention to the development of the main characters. Sherlock Holmes became more emotional throughout the show, even though he still kept his intelligence and brilliant deduction skills.
Some fans were disappointed the show didn't put more emphasis on romance. The truth is Sherlock Holmes in the books never was a romantic person. That didn't stop the audience from shipping Sherlock with his best friend John Watson or the mysterious Irene Adler. In both of these cases, Sherlock had a lot in common with John and Irene.
Perfect Couple: They Love Excitement
John could have very well led a perfectly normal life after he came back to London. Instead, he chose to jump straight into Sherlock's eccentric life.
John hated his mundane existence and he wanted to do something different but didn't know what. Sherlock provided him with a functioning alternative. Solving crimes together was often dangerous but both Sherlock and John thrive in danger and the excitement and rush of adrenaline it provides them with.
Irene Adler: Sherlock Mourned Her Death
When Sherlock believed Irene Adler was dead, he reacted in a way that spoke a lot about his real feelings. He didn't eat and spent a lot of time playing sad tunes on his violin.
Sherlock isn't the most outspoken of people when it comes to his emotions, even though he has feelings, he rarely shows them. But his behavior proved that he had a real affection for the presumably dead Irene Adler.
Perfect Couple: They're Both Good Guys
Sherlock could have easily chosen a different path for him. With his incredible intelligence and other skills, he could have become the greatest criminal of all time. Yet he chose to help people, even when he sometimes mocks them for their stupidity. John also prefers to aid others, as his profession as a doctor is all about helping those in trouble.
Irene Adler, on the other hand, has no trouble committing a crime, as long as she gets what she wants. Ultimately, she and Sherlock live on opposite sides.
Irene Adler: Clear Attraction
The attraction between Sherlock and Irene was obvious from the start. Sherlock sometimes acted out of character in her presence. Something like this happens when a person meets someone they like and want to make a good impression.
With John, on the other hand, Sherlock was quick to tell him he was married to his job and not looking for a relationship.
Perfect Couple: They Support Each Other
No matter what happens, Sherlock and John usually have each other's back. That might seem like a given thing but not everybody would be able or willing to jump into action to protect their friend. Sherlock and John do this on regular basis.
John was willing to shoot a man to save Sherlock and Sherlock ran for John's life when he was in danger. Irene Adler, on the other hand, comes and goes as she pleases.
Irene Adler: Both Are Brilliant
Sherlock fans usually love John Watson. But there's no denying that while John's smart, he's nowhere near the same level as Sherlock. Irene Adler is something else.
She and Sherlock are much more similar, considering their intellectual level. Irene was originally able to trick Sherlock, and that's something rarely anybody can pull off.
Perfect Couple: Similar Sense Of Humor
Sherlock and John usually end up facing problems and their life is far from safe. Despite that, they still find time to laugh together which is integral for many relationships. Sherlock has an unusual sense of humor but John finds him funny regardless of that.
And even John can make Sherlock laugh or smile. Their enthusiasm and ability to make jokes even in the dark or inappropriate situations is what brings them closer.
Irene Adler: He Saved Her Life
Just when Irene's about to get executed, Sherlock shows up in disguise and helps her escape. It's safe to assume he wouldn't put in so much effort if he didn't care about her. Sherlock's not the type of person who would just run around, helping everyone.
But Irene was important enough for him to find the time to infiltrate the place where she was and help her get to safety.
Perfect Couple: They Complement Each Other
Ultimately, Sherlock and John are the perfect pair. They complement each other well, give the other exactly what he needs or lacks. John needed excitement in his life, a reason to live in the first episode.
Sherlock gave him that when they started investigating crimes together. Sherlock needed someone to lean on, but more importantly, to call him out when he wasn't acting like a human. John brought out his more humane side, helped him get in touch with his emotions.
Irene Adler: They Do What They Want
Sherlock and Irene are in many ways similar. One of them is their independence, willingness to do whatever they want. It's doubtful Sherlock could ever lead a normal life, the same way John does in later seasons.
And Irene also doesn't seem like the type of person to settle down. In the end, their romance would be explosive and intense.