Fans would have to wait until next year for a new "Sherlock" episode. Viewers last saw Sherlock Holmes (Benedict Cumberbatch) and Dr. John Watson (Martin Freeman) in the series' Christmas special titled "The Abominable Bride," which aired on Jan. 1, 2016. The future of "Sherlock" after Season 4, however, is still uncertain and recent reports have pointed to the end.
Earlier this month, Cumberbatch said in an interview with Variety that "Sherlock" Season 4 might signal "the end of an era." The actor added that the upcoming episodes were "very complete as it is" and it will go to "a place where it will be pretty hard to follow on immediately."
These remarks were taken out of context so Cumberbatch had to issue a clarification while promoting his upcoming Marvel film "Doctor Strange" in Hong Kong. He reiterated that "Sherlock" Season 4 is the last installment for now, though the whole crew has adopted the "never say never attitude." They are ready to do more of the highly popular BBC series but only "if it's right," USA Today reported.
Cumberbatch's earlier interview with Variety also revealed that he would "love to keep revisiting" "Sherlock." For him, never returning to portray the genius detective would be "galling."
Cumberbatch's busy schedule played a huge part in the big gaps between "Sherlock" seasons. Aside from his titular role in "Doctor Strange," the English actor also had significant roles in "The Hobbit" trilogy (where his "Sherlock" co-star, Freeman, also starred in), "Star Trek Into Darkness," and "The Imitation Game," with the latter earning him an Academy Award nomination, Screen Rant listed.
Cumberbatch's immediate future is also filled with movie commitments. He will reprise his role as Stephen Strange in "Avengers: Infinity War" and has joined Andy Serkis' 2018 flick "Jungle Book."
The titles of "Sherlock" Season 4's three episodes have already been revealed. Episode one is titled "The Six Thatchers" while episode two is called "The Lying Detective." The third episode's title is still a mystery, Parent Herald previously reported.
Like the earlier seasons, all Season 4 episodes will be based on classic "Sherlock" stories from Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. Co-creator Mark Gatiss, who also portrays Mycroft Holmes on "Sherlock," said in July that Season 4 will be the series' "darkest season yet" though it will also showcase "laughs and fun," according to Entertainment Weekly.
Amanda Abbington will reprise her role as Mary Morstan on "Sherlock" Season 4. Sacha Dhawan, James Holmes, and Daniel Hoffmann-Gill serve as guest stars.
"Sherlock" Season 4 will air on BBC One and PBS Masterpiece. Watch a teaser below.
