The Ship Happening: Why Mycroft and Lestrade?

Introduction

Why do people ship Mycroft and Lestrade? If you're new to this concept or just curious, you're in the right place. The theory of a relationship between Mycroft Holmes and Detective Inspector Greg Lestrade may seem surprising to some, but it's a surprisingly prevalent idea in the fan communities of the Sherlock series. Let's dive deeper into the evidence, the reasoning behind it, and explore why this ship has captured the imaginations of fans.

The Evidence

The idea of a relationship between Mycroft and Lestrade primarily stems from small details in the storyline. One particularly cited piece of evidence is from the episode where Sherlock attempts to uncover the identity of the Mayfly Man. In this scene, viewers see Mycroft in Sherlock's Mind Palace wearing a tie, which is notably the same one worn by Lestrade at the wedding. This has led many fans to interpret the connection between the two characters as a symbol of a romantic or close relationship. However, it's important to note that the show often reuses costumes for budgetary reasons, suggesting that the tie itself might not be the best evidence for a deeper connection.

The Fan Narrative: The "Fannon" Perspective

Despite the limited on-screen evidence, fans have taken to the notion of a Mycroft and Lestrade relationship. This ship, often referred to as "Mylstrate" in the fan community, has become widely accepted in fannon (fan-defined canon). Many fans find this ship fitting due to the underlying themes of brotherhood and close friendship in the narrative. While it's hard to pinpoint when the ship rose to popularity, it's clear that the affection and loyalty displayed by the characters towards each other has allowed fans to construct a romantic storyline based on these emotions.

Challenges to the Myroach Theory

Not everyone is convinced by the idea of Mycroft and Lestrade as a couple. Some argue that the characters' constant proximity to Sherlock and their attempts to intervene in his affairs don't necessarily indicate a romantic connection. For instance, one fan theory posits that their bond might be more brotherly or platonic. Additionally, there are specific elements of both characters' pasts that challenge the idea of a romantic relationship. Mycroft's love story with Lady Smallwood and Lestrade's various unstable affairs complicate the idea of them forming a long-term partnership. This complexity highlights the intricacies behind the ship theories in fan fiction.

How Shipping Works in Fan Communities

The concept of shipping is a fundamental aspect of fan culture. Characters, regardless of their background or current storyline, can become the subject of romantic fantasies. Fans often create a narrative where characters are seen in a romantic light, whether it's due to their chemistry, shared struggles, or emotional bonds. In the case of Mycroft and Lestrade, this ship is just one example of how fans can fill in the gaps with their own interpretations and theories. The ship may seem unlikely to some, but in the world of fan fiction, anything is possible.

Conclusion

The idea of a relationship between Mycroft and Lestrade, while not definitively proven on screen, has captured the imagination of many fans. The limited evidence, combined with the characters' close bond and the supportive fan narrative, has led to the development of a dedicated ship. Whether fans believe in this ship or not, it's a testament to the rich and creative nature of fan communities. The journey of exploring these theories can provide a deeper understanding and appreciation of the characters and the story.