Professor Moriarty, the wicked and conniving trickster that has tormented Benedict Cumberbatch’s ingenious detective from the off, looks set to make his return in the eerie first trailer for Sherlock season 4.
Ramping up the stakes for Cumberbatch’s titular lead and his old confidant, John Watson (Martin Freeman), the beautifully shot teaser culminates with a scene of what we assume to be Moriarty from behind. Of course, it’s all conjecture until the new season premieres later this year, but the mere presence of Andrew Scott’s fan-favourite villain will surely turn Sherlock’s world on its head. That, or the good doctor has been spending too much time in that mind palace of his.
When quizzed about the long-term prospects of the show, co-creator Steven Moffat conceded that the rising stock of both Cumberbatch and Martin Freeman has resulted in more scheduling conflicts, which could cast doubt over future seasons of Sherlock going forward.
“I don’t know how long we can keep it going. I’m personally willing but I’m hardly the main draw. I would be moderately surprised if this was the last time we ever made this show. But it absolutely could be.”
It’s not a game anymore: Sherlock season 4 is expected to premiere before the year’s end – and it could herald the beginning of the end for BBC’s prized detective series.