On January 23, 2026, Netflix subscribers discovered Blind Sherlock, a gripping new series whose main character is a blind police investigator with extraordinary hearing skills. While the show feels like pure crime fiction, its roots are firmly planted in a remarkable (and very real) Belgian story.
Sacha Van Loo
The series draws inspiration from the life of Sacha Van Loo, a blind professional from Antwerp who worked within a Belgian police listening unit. For more than 20 years, Belgian police services have collaborated with visually impaired specialists (sometimes nicknamed “Blind Sherlock”) whose exceptional auditory abilities have proven invaluable in analysing recordings and identifying crucial details in criminal investigations.
Ligue Braille
In the Netflix adaptation, we follow Roman Mertens, a blind investigator with acute hearing, as he tracks down drug traffickers operating in Rotterdam. The suspense is fictional, but the concept is not. The idea that blindness can sharpen other senses (and that these skills can serve justice) is grounded in real-life Belgian expertise.
Behind the scenes, the Ligue Braille played an essential role in bringing authenticity to the production. The Belgian EBU member supported the casting process, helped raise awareness among the crew, and ensured that blindness was portrayed with accuracy and respect. Their involvement highlights the importance of inclusion in media representation and demonstrates how collaboration with specialized organizations can elevate storytelling. One of the Ligue’s own members, Bart Kelchtermans, takes on the lead role, delivering a powerful and nuanced performance that reflects lived experience. His participation embodies the project’s commitment to genuine representation rather than stereotypes.
Blind Sherlock is more than just a crime series, it is a tribute to the skills, professionalism, and resilience of visually impaired individuals who contribute meaningfully to society, including in unexpected fields like law enforcement.