American public broadcaster PBS has revealed rough plans for when they intend to air the new season of Sherlock.

This is the closest thing to confirmation that fans have had yet about when they can expect the three new episodes to be broadcast.

Speaking at an executive session at the 2016 TCA winter press tour yesterday, PBS president Paula Kerger announced: “We do have the next Sherlock announced, that is coming up about a year from now.”

A launch in January 2017 would continue the New Year premiere pattern seen with Season 2, Season 3 and the recent one-off Victorian special.

Kerger explained the delay: “As you know, Benedict has gotten to be somewhat popular since we began our work with him and he very much wants to continue with ‘Sherlock.’ As you know, they are produced almost like films, and we’re hoping the next one will be about a year from now.”

Season 4 is expected to begin filming in April.

> Here’s everything we know about Season 4 so far.

The recent Sherlock special has enjoyed multi-million dollar box office success around the world. ‘The Abominable Bride’ aired on New Year’s Day in the UK, where it attracted 11.6 million viewers to BBC One.

> Buy ‘The Abominable Bride’ on DVD on Amazon.

> Buy the complete Season 1-3 boxset on Amazon.

Are you looking forward to Season 4? Let us know below…