‘Sherlock’ returns sooner than expected

The BBC has announced that hit BBC One drama, Sherlock, will return to screens for a Special, followed by a series of three new episodes.

The detective series produced by Hartswood Films, and inspired by the works of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, stars Benedict Cumberbatch, Martin Freeman, Una Stubbs, Amanda Abbington and Louise Brealey.

The end of the third series saw Sherlock’s thought-to-be dead nemesis, Moriarty’s face being broadcast on every television in the land? Did Moriaty dupe us all? Or is it an elaborate plan by Sherlock? Either way I’m sure fans will be happy to see the return of Andrew Scott, if indeed he does return.

Speaking about the return of the series, co-creator, writer and executive producer Steven Moffat says: “A special, plus a new series of three episodes – it’s a record-breaking run! Of course, it’s far too early to say what’s coming, but we’re reasonably confident that the very next thing to happen to Sherlock and John, is the very last thing you’d expect…”

Co-creator, writer and executive producer Mark Gatiss, adds: “Series Four! At last ! It’s always special to return to Sherlock but this time it’s even more special as we’re doing… a Special! Not only THAT, we’ll then be shooting three more episodes which will take Sherlock and John Watson into deeper and darker water than ever before. The whole Sherlock team are terrifically excited to return for four new adventures. The Game is on – again!”

Sue Vertue, Executive Producer, Hartswood Films says: “It’s taken a little while to get the dates sorted as none of the boys are exactly sitting back twiddling their thumbs but there was unanimous goodwill to make this work, so we’re thrilled that 221b is going to be inhabited again.”

Ben Stephenson, Controller, BBC Drama, says: “Steven and Mark are ready to unleash the most shocking and surprising series of Sherlock yet. The only thing to expect is the unexpected…”

Sherlock is written and created by Steven Moffat and Mark Gatiss. Sherlock is produced by Sue Vertue and the executive producers are Beryl Vertue, Mark Gatiss and Steven Moffat for Hartswood Films, Bethan Jones for BBC Cymru Wales and Rebecca Eaton for Masterpiece.

Filming on the special episode will begin in January 2015, with series 4 of Sherlock shooting later next year.