SHERLOCK actor Benedict Cumberbatch was spotted pulling funny faces on FaceTime to his family at a Southend hotel.

The star been working away while filming his newest biopic about artist Louis Wain.

He was seen speaking to his family before leaving the Seven Hotel in Southend on Thursday.

The Sherlock actor, 43, put on an animated display as he spoke with his children.

He then showed them views of Southend seafront from the balcony.