After it was revealed that Sherlock would be coming to our screens again in the trailer for series four many people were excited about the prospect of seeing the Arthur Conan Doyle character come to life once more. But could the New Years episode be the final one?

Now the beloved detective, played by Benedict Cumberbatch, is rumoured to be leaving us; bookies have dropped the odds on him meeting his end in what could be a massive spoiler for the highly anticipated return.

Benedict Cumberbatch at the premier of Dr. StrangeBenedict Cumberbatch at the premier of Dr. Strange

William Hill are offering 6/4 odds that Holmes could be leaving our screens with spokesperson Joe Crilly stating that: "Cumberbatch has hinted that this may be the last series and with his big screen career going so well you can see producers might decide to kill him off".

Benedict Cumberbatch himself has added to the speculation, but has also given hope to amend our concerns stating this is "the last one -for now".

"We love doing the show and all I'll say about it is that we're all very busy, we're all doing other things now and you'll have to see the fourth season to realise why, for now, it's not going to happen again at the same regularity that it has been happening" said the star of 12 Years A Slave and The Imitation Game.

The BBC Series has previously toyed with the idea of the detective meeting his demise, as in the second series, Sherlock feigned his own suicide to outwit his nemesis Moriaty.

The stars have indeed been busy with Freeman starring in both Fargo and The Hobbit since the inception of the modern-day take on the classic literature. Cumberbatch is set to star in animated film 'Magik' out Christmas day, whilst also taking a starring role in both The Grinch and Jungle Book -both coming out in 2018 meaning the star may not have time to film a new series of Sherlock.

Martin Freeman At The South Bank Sky Arts AwardMartin Freeman At The South Bank Sky Arts Award

We may not know if Sherlock will be returning soon but Cumberbatch reflected on the matter, "But we'll see, we'll never say never and when it's right, if its right, we'll do more."