Fans expecting the fourth season of "Sherlock" may need to wait longer, as the sequel is reportedly getting its premiere sometime in 2017. But here's a consolation -- Jim Moriarty could actually be alive and come back!

Initial speculations revealed that the show arrives in 2016. According to Christian Today, Benedict Cumberbatch's rumored casting in "Doctor Strange" led to the delay of "Sherlock" Season 4. Deadline also heard that the actor was sought by Marvel to play the lead Stephen Strange.

On the other hand, a recent report from KDrama Stars confirmed that the series returns in Jan. 2016 -- with three regular episodes. Still, fans may not be very pleased to wait that long.

However, Christian Post added that fans will be having a Christmas treat in 2015, centered on the mystery of "The Adventure of the Blue Carbuncle."

Cumberbatch himself has a lot of queries surrounding Sherlock's character, as noted by Air Herald. Moriarty, whom we all saw to have killed himself in the past must be dead -- unless his head is stronger than a bullet.

Yet Moriarty's frequent appearances were in Sherlock's dreams or daydreams. This led to speculations that what we all saw could be nothing but faked death.

Air Herald mentioned that producer Steven Moffat has repeatedly affirmed Moriarty's death. But in an earlier interview with Vulture, he was rather neutral.

When asked about the villain's comeback, Moffat responded, "I can't really say what we're doing with that, but there is no last-minute whim in this. We've had what we're going to do with Moriarty in place from before the second season. Exactly what we're going to do."

It also appears that he has talked to the actor who plays Moriarty, none other than Andrew Scott! Could that be a negotiation? Moffat went on, "I remember talking it through with Andrew Scott, who plays Moriarty. Wait and see what's going to happen."

Nevertheless, "Sherlock" Season 4 may bring more than what is expected. Bustle cited Moffat's stance that the upcoming season will be the "most devastating yet" -- and it's just depressing that we aren't seeing the series in our TVs and computer screens as soon as we want!

The outlet believed Moriarty has always been Sherlock's most famous villain. In our own account, it may be odd to totally ditch a character so good that he has helped develop the protagonist's character one way or another. Sherlock also made himself a counterfeit death, which makes archenemy Moriarty just as qualified to do so.

What do you think about "Sherlock" Season 4? Will it be worth the wait? Do you want Jim back? Sound off in the comments below!