New pictures have emerged from the Sherlock set - and the hit BBC series may have just unveiled its biggest twist yet.

Sherlock... has scruff.

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Benedict Cumberbatch filming Sherlock series 4 in Cardiffpinterest
Matthew Horwood / Getty Images

Benedict Cumberbatch filming Sherlock series 4 in Cardiffpinterest
Matthew Horwood / Getty Images

Yes, Benedict Cumberbatch's dapper detective is looking a little worse for wear in the new images from filming on series four.

Let the speculation begin as to why Sherlock is sporting face fuzz in the new episodes. Is he on the run? Perhaps from Toby Jones's tyrannical villain?

Benedict Cumberbatch filming Sherlock series 4 in Cardiffpinterest
Matthew Horwood / Getty Images

The latest series – following on from January 2016's special 'The Abominable Bride' – was shooting on Charles Street in Cardiff, South Wales.

The three new episodes are expected to launch on BBC One in early 2017.

Before that, the Sherlock team will be heading to San Diego Comic-Con later this month - though both Cumberbatch and Martin Freeman will notably be absent from their Hall H panel.