Sherlock BBC versus Elementary CBS: An angry and disbelieving Rant

Alright, I need to rant. So here's your warning.
*WARNING - Rant about to ensue*
Ok. I recently learned about CBS's new pilot episode for a Detective drama called Elementary - based off (or rather, ripped off) of the BBC's awesome show, Sherlock.
I facepalmed at the Anderson-level stupidity.
I could handle it. I wouldn't watch it, but I could handle it. The guy playing Sherlock Holmes would still be British, thankfully. Benedict Cumberbatch (the lead in the awesome Sherlock, if you people who have no idea what you're doing here were wondering) said he was okay with it, even if Steven Moffat (the creator, once again for you people, what are you doing here?) wasn't. So I could take it, because it would surely be off the air soon. But then the announcement came. Lucy Liu (a woman) would be playing Joan Watson. Joan... Watson.
I banged my head against the wall.
Seriously? SERIOUSLY?!? What the heck is going on in your head, CBS?? Does every show you do have to have a female lead so you can do a 'falling-in-love-with-your-friend' routine? Even then, JOAN Watson? That is so clichè! That's what FANFICTION writers use for genderbending! It's just wrong, on so, SO many levels. I'd rather have a hedgehog as Watson!
CBS, take my advice. Quit while you still have your dignity. And people who put up with your crap. (I'm looking at you, producers of Hawaii Five-0...)
-Gracen