Lucy Liu to Play First Female Watson

Lucy Liu will star in a modern day twist on Sherlock Holmes, but the actress won't be a damsel in distress.

The former Charlie's Angel is set to play Holmes' astute sidekick Watson on the CBS drama Elementary, marking the first time the role will be portrayed by a woman. Though the character's first name was changed from John to Joan for the series, Holmes' right hand man has always been known simply as Watson.

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The show, which could air in the fall if picked up, also stars Jonny Lee Miller as the legendary Holmes and will be set in New York City. No further details about the series have been released. 

The UK version called Sherlock is entering its third season and stars Star Trek's Benedict Cumberbatch as the famed detective.

Liu can currently be seen in the gritty police drama Southland on TNT.