Special new Sherlock image released by the BBC

To amp up the excitement, the network released the first look of the Christmas segment featuring two of its beloved characters, Sherlock (Benedict Cumberbatch) and John Watson (Martin Freeman).

The unique episode, according to series co-creator/executive producer/writer Steven Moffat, will be a distinct departure from the show’s usual format.

Much of the filming took place at Gloucester’s main landmark the cathedral.

The show’s plot has been shrouded in secrecy, and it’s unlikely that we’ll get any more clues as to what Sherlock and his loyal sidekick will be up to. “Why did we make that silly mistake of updating it?'” Moffatt said.

Sherlock fans were today treated to a picture of Cumberbatch and his on screen sidekick Martin Freeman ahead of the new series. This could be interesting, as there has traditionally been a delay between the United Kingdom and USA airings of Sherlock episodes, due to the fact that the BBC airs the episodes in its homeland, while PBS brings the series to USA audiences.

The special is widely tipped to involve a trip back in time to Victorian London, where the original Sherlock stories were set. “I think it’s really terrific”. We’re making it in January but we don’t know when it’s going to be on.

Expect some more Sherlock news during Steven Moffat and executive producer Sue Vertue’s panel at Nerd headquarters during Comic Con.

What do you think of this new photo? Are you excited for the special? We’ll have to wait and see.