Sherlock special gets title and air date

The Victorian era special of vastly popular TV show “Sherlock” that's been shrouded in mystery these past many months has dropped some clues, and an updated trailer. Masterpiece and PBS have announced that the 90-minute one-off special, titled “Sherlock: The Abominable Bride”, will premiere in the US on January 1, 2016. BBC One also confirmed it is airing the same day in the UK. This marks the first time the series has premiered on the same day in both countries, which should delight viewers who've been frustrated by the traditional lag time.

The special finds Benedict Cumberbatch's high-functioning sociopath along with his sidekick Dr John Watson (Martin Freeman) in 1890s London. Mary Morstan (Amanda Abbington), Inspector Lestrade (Rupert Graves) and Mrs Hudson (Una Stubbs) also turn up at 221b Baker Street in the period episode.

The special is also due for a theatrical release in select movie houses around the world, although details are still to come. Earlier this week, it was confirmed that plans are underway for the special to go out in theatres in China, where the last season of “Sherlock” was seen by over 98 million viewers.

The previously announced “Season 4” is also afoot with shooting due to begin in the spring, PBS said. Creators Steven Moffat and Mark Gatiss are “busy writing away right now,” the BBC tweeted. An air date is yet to be confirmed on either side of the Atlantic.

“Sherlock” is produced by Hartswood Films for BBC One and co-produced by Masterpiece. “The Abominable Bride” was co-written by Moffat and Gatiss.