Is Andrew Scott Returning as Moriarty in Sherlock Season 4?

The speculation has been building for quite some time now, and with the anticipation of Sherlock Season 4, many fans are eagerly awaiting the return of Andrew Scott as Moriarty. In the Abominable Bride episode, Moriarty's mysterious absence was explained by a faked death, which has sparked a numerous theories and speculations. So, is Andrew Scott coming back in Season 4? Let’s dive deeper into the possibilities and explore what the Sherlock creators have in store for us.

The Faked Death and Moriarty's Return

During the Abominable Bride episode, Moriarty's fate was left hanging by the razor's edge. A shot in the head seemed to deliver the final blow, as everyone mourned his untimely demise. However, the episode cleverly hinted at a twist by suggesting that this might have been a meticulous fabrication. The Abominable Bride delved into the character's psychological profile, revealing the extent of his cunning and manipulative nature. This added depth and intrigue to his character, making it highly plausible that his death was faked as part of a grander scheme.

The official Sherlock website and social media channels have kept fans guessing, releasing images of Andrew Scott on the set of the new season. While the BBC has not officially confirmed his role, the(async) nature of his presence on set strongly suggests that he is playing Moriarty. This raises the question: what will be the impact of Moriarty's return on the narrative of the series?

What to Expect in Sherlock Season 4

Season 4 of Sherlock is expected to bring new twists and revelations. Steven Moffat and Mark Gatiss, known for their innovative storytelling, promise to bring the audience back into the world of Holmes and Watson with fresh dynamics. Moriarty's role in the next season is crucial, as his return will likely significantly alter the landscape of the story. The show has a history of taking creative liberties with the original Sherlock stories, and Moriarty's faked death offers a wealth of potential for new plotlines and character development.

The fan theory that Moriarty will be alive in Season 4 is rooted in the mystery of his demise and the character's indomitable nature. Necromancers and supernatural elements are part of the fabric of the Sherlock universe, which often incorporates elements that challenge conventional norms. Therefore, the unexpected return of Moriarty would align with the show's penchant for the unusual and the uncanny.

The Nostalgic Appeal of Bringing Moriarty Back

One of the primary reasons for the excitement around Moriarty's return is the nostalgic value of reuniting with a character who was central to the earlier seasons. The chemistry between Benedict Cumberbatch and Andrew Scott in their roles as Holmes and Moriarty was a significant highlight. Bringing Moriarty back would not only satisfy the existing fanbase but also add depth to the narrative, creating a compelling contrast between the detective and his criminal genius.

Moreover, Moriarty's return would create tension and conflict, enriching the story and driving the narrative forward. His psychological manipulation and cunning nature would offer new avenues for narrative exploration, pushing the boundaries of the mystery genre. This dynamic would likely result in a richer storytelling experience for the audience, making Sherlock even more significant in the pantheon of modern detective shows.

Conclusion

While official confirmation from the BBC remains elusive, the evidence strongly suggests that Andrew Scott will indeed reprise his role as Moriarty in Sherlock Season 4. The Abominable Bride hinted at a twist that aligns with the show's tradition of remixing and reimagining the original stories. The anticipation of Moriarty's return serves as a beacon of hope for Sherlock fans, promising a season filled with suspense and intrigue. Stay tuned for January 2017, when the truth about Moriarty's fate will be revealed.