BBC 'Sherlock' Season 4 Release Date & Cast News: Show Won't Begin Filming Until Spring 2016

Sorry, Holmies and Benedict Cumberbatch fans worldwide, "Sherlock" co-creator Steven Moffat revealed Sunday evening that the beloved BBC series won't begin filming its fourth season until spring 2016, meaning that the fourth season won't air nearly as soon as anticipated.

Moffat appeared alongside producer Sue Vertue at the BAFTA winners' press conference backstage, where he made the reveal, reported Digital Spy.

At the BAFTA Television Awards 2015, hosted by Graham Norton, detective drama "Sherlock" won the Radio Times Audience Award. However, the series' star Benedict Cumberbatch lost out for the best actor award for a third time. Instead, the award went to Jason Watkins, for his role in "The Lost Honour of Christopher Jefferies."

The upcoming season, which promises tragedy, devastation and adventure, won't air any time soon. But, the standalone 90-minute, "Sherlock" Victorian special that will air on Christmas will have to tide fans over until the late premiere of the three-episode season.

On Twitter, many fans expressed dissatisfaction and outrage about the delay of the upcoming season after the BBC Entertainment News Team twitted, "And Sherlock fans can expect a new series of three episodes to begin filming next spring #BAFTATV."

Johnlocked: "No I can't wait that long - why, why, why, we've been on a hiatus for like two years."

Rushi: "This is too long a wait."

iLemon Fu: "What the hell next spring???!!!"

Kimberley Harvey: oh that is a disappointingly long wait!! #Sherlock

Clayton LaPlant: That's right BBC!! An eternity.

Doyle Wells: oh noooo i am so disappointed about the date. ..so it will be aired not before 2017?

Shivonne Mckissie: "we get a special to somewhat hold us over. Ben can be with baby as well."