'Sherlock' season 4 release date, spoilers rumors: New episodes to premiere January 2017?; sets preparing for filming

The filming for "Sherlock" season 4 is about to start and the production team is preparing the sets. One of the show's production designers, Arwel Wyn Jones, shared snaps showing the work being done in building the sets for the new season.

Benedict Cumberbatch as Sherlock Holmes in BBC One's "Sherlock" facebook.com/Sherlock.BBCW

There are wallpapers and all sorts of contraptions being put together inside a studio. All these should be ready by March, as official filming starts this spring in time for a January 2017 premiere of new "Sherlock" episodes.

Benedict Cumberbatch, who plays the titular character, has been a very busy man. He is currently filming "Doctor Strange," where he plays the eponymous sorcerer. He was also involved in multiple films and Broadway in the previous months.

The long wait allows fans to speculate more on what will happen in "Sherlock" season 4. The leading concern is about the possibility of Moriarty's return to the scene. In the second season, he appeared to be a goner but he made his presence felt in the last moments of the previous season.

In the third episode of "Sherlock" season 3, Moriarty's face appeared on television via a static image where he said, "Miss me?" It remains to be seen whether or not Sherlock's greatest rival will return and fans fervently hope they will see another showdown.

Series creator Steven Moffat has also been coy about Andrew Scott reprising his role. During an interview for the "Sherlock" Christmas special, he said that fans "may or may not see" the actor back as Moriarty, who appeared to have killed himself in order to discredit Sherlock.

"Sherlock" season 4 is said to premiere January next year. Moffat spent the past few months writing the script.

News
Sarah Mullally reiterates apology as safeguarding record comes under the spotlight
Sarah Mullally reiterates apology as safeguarding record comes under the spotlight

The incoming Archbishop of Canterbury, Sarah Mullally, has come under pressure over her handling of past safeguarding cases. 

Evangelical vicar accused of abuse won't stand trial
Evangelical vicar accused of abuse won't stand trial

A leading figure among conservative evangelical Anglicans will not stand trial for alleged abuse, it has emerged.

Church of England bishops delay final decision on same-sex blessings
Church of England bishops delay final decision on same-sex blessings

The Church of England's House of Bishops has postponed a final decision on the Living in Love and Faith process as it continues to work on proposals. 

Faith in the festive chaos: how you can sustain your family’s faith this Christmas
Faith in the festive chaos: how you can sustain your family’s faith this Christmas

Anna Hawken, Parenting for Faith from BRF Ministries, has some helpful tips for families to connect with God in the midst of the "December tornado".