Sherlock is taunted by nemesis Culverton Smith in tense trailer for series four
The super-sleuth is seen coming face-to-face with the new villain for the first time in the latest teaser for the next season
SHERLOCK fans have been sent into a frenzy by a new trailer which shows the super-sleuth coming face-to-face with his new nemesis Culverton Smith.
The iconic detective, played by Benedict Cumberbatch, is set to do battle with a new villain played by Toby Jones in the upcoming series four.
Fans have been given their first glimpse of the TV showdown in a new trailer for the highly-anticipated episodes.
The clip shows Sherlock facing off with Smith in a tense showdown.
Producers have described Smith as the "most evil villain" in the show so far, and he seems to be living up to his fearsome reputation.
He is heard asking the question: "What's the very worst thing you can do to your best friends?" before answering: "Tell them your darkest secrets".
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The dark footage also reveals there is danger in store for Holmes and his sidekick John Watson, played by Martin Freeman.
The doctor is seen in what appears to be a deep well, up to his knees in water, while the clip also shows a burning house and Sherlock locked in a dingy cell.
The most poignant moment comes at the end with Sherlock looking into the camera and saying: "I love you."
It was previously revealed that in the new series, Doctor Watson and his wife Mary, played by Martin's real life partner Amanda Abbington, welcome a baby and Sherlock does not seem too happy about it.
The news series returns to BBC1 on New Year's Day at 9pm.