Benedict Cumberbatch as Sherlock
Christmas could see the return of Sherlock to screens.
The BBC One series is believed to have attracted more than 10 million viewers with its jaw-dropping finale to series three last night, and sources have revealed that its return may come earlier than anyone expects.
An insider told The Sun newspaper: "The BBC is desperate for a 'Sherlock' Christmas Day special this year. It wants its biggest guns ready."
Last night's finale left fans stunned as Sherlock's arch-enemy, Moriarty - who was seen committing suicide in the previous series - returned from the dead to tease viewers with the words: "Miss me? Miss me? Did you miss me?"
Show creator Steven Moffat spoke of the surprise resurrection last week, saying: "You don't know what's going on there. We know what's going on. But we're not telling you. We enjoyed getting to see more of Moriarty."
Although it has been reported that fans could be waiting in anticipation for up to two years to find out how Andrew Scott's character survived his suicide, it has now been suggested BBC bosses are persuading the show's producers to work on new episodes in time for Christmas.
Bosses of the hit show have confirmed they have worked out ideas for a fourth and fifth series, but the date of their return depends on the schedules of stars Benedict Cumberbatch (Sherlock) and Martin Freeman (Dr. Watson).
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