After an excruciatingly long wait, fans are finally treated with their first sneak peek of Benedict Cumberbatch in "Sherlock" season 4. Writer Mark Gatiss shared a snap of the actor donning Sherlock's signature curls and popped collar coat.

The photo features Cumberbatch with his back turned from the camera during a take. Although it does not give much away, the photo was enough to put the "Sherlock" fanbase into overdrive. After all, they've waited years for this moment.

Gatiss's post also shows that the production for "Sherlock" season 4 is now in full swing.

Cumberbatch said he is as excited as fans are for the show's return. The actor said he is "genuinely thrilled" to be back and that the new season will be worth the wait.

The "Sherlock" lead" has been a very busy man in the past months. It was only recently that filming for "Doctor Strange," where he stars as the titular sorcerer, wrapped up. He had been bouncing from one project to another as well.

"Sherlock series four - here we go again! Whatever else we do, wherever we all go, all roads lead back to Baker Street - and it always feels like coming home," co-creators, writers and executive producers Steven Moffat and Mark Gatiss said in a shared statement.

"Ghosts of the past are rising in the lives of Sherlock Holmes and John Watson bringing adventure, romance and terror in their wake. This is the story we've been telling from the beginning. A story about to reach its climax..." they added.

In "Sherlock" season 4, Sherlock is back on "British" soil while Watson (Martin Freeman) and Mary (Amanda Abbington) prepare for a new chapter in their lives with their child on the way.

Rumor has it that "Sherlock" season 4 will see the return of Andrew Scott as Jim Moriarty. A romance between Inspector Lestrade (Rupert Graves) and Molly (Louise Brealey) is also reportedly brewing.

"Sherlock" season 4 will premiere on BBC next year.