Sherlock Fans Mistook This British Thriller For The Secret Lost Episode Of Season 4

Despite a promising debut with its initial two seasons, the BBC’s ‘Sherlock’ series ended on a lackluster note, leaving fans speculating if another British show had secretly replaced it as season 4. With roots deeply embedded in literature for over a century, the character of Sherlock Holmes has been reinvented across various forms of entertainment.

The ownership of Sherlock Holmes’ rights has granted artists a lot of creative liberty, and one of the latest and most successful interpretations of this legendary detective is BBC’s Sherlock. This series transported Holmes and his associates to contemporary London, transforming his cases and associated characters to fit modern technology, current societal matters, and more.

The excellence of Sherlock reached its pinnacle at the conclusion of its second series; however, it failed to sustain that high level in its subsequent seasons, leaving fans disheartened with seasons 3 and 4. This dissatisfaction, combined with various other factors, sparked speculation among viewers that a hidden episode from season 4 might have existed, leading many to anticipate another British mystery series as a replacement.

Apple Tree Yard Was Believed To Be A Sherlock Episode

Unfortunately For Sherlock Fans, Apple Tree Yard Has Nothing To Do With It

Between seasons of the show Sherlock, there was a two-year break, allowing viewers plenty of time to brainstorm ideas about what might happen next for Holmes and Watson. During the filming of the fourth season, it was whispered that Sherlock’s last season would be unusual, featuring four episodes instead of the usual three, earning the nickname “the secret fourth episode.

During that period, speculation arose among fans as they suspected that “Apple Tree Yard” might be an unannounced fourth installment of “Sherlock.” This assumption was not only based on the title (which could have been a nod to Scotland Yard), but also because “Apple Tree Yard” was airing in the same timeslot as “Sherlock” and featured Emily Watson, reminiscent of John Watson.

It turns out that Apple Tree Yard, which debuted on BBC One in 2016, is not connected to Sherlock in any way, despite some fans’ fervent speculation about a hidden fourth episode. Instead, it stands as its own unique series.

Why Fans Believed There Was A Secret Episode In Sherlock Season 4

The Secret Season 4 Episode Is Part Of Sherlock Lore

The creators of Sherlock knew very well that they had a devoted fan base, and they played on this by ending season 2 with Sherlock seemingly meeting his demise after jumping off the roof of St. Bart’s hospital. However, in true Holmes fashion, it was ultimately revealed at the end of the episode that he had not perished, but rather faked his own death, much like in the books.

This sparked numerous fan theories speculating on how Sherlock might have staged his own death, since Watson had seen him jump and even verified his pulse upon reaching the body. Some of these ideas were quite imaginative and clever, though unfortunately, they weren’t effectively utilized in the Sherlock season 3 opener.

Eventually, Sherlock failed to provide an official explanation on how Holmes feigned his demise, leaving viewers disheartened (and justifiably irate as well). Yet, this didn’t deter the devoted fanbase from conjecturing about the series’ future plans. It was out of this speculation that the concept for the clandestine fourth episode emerged.

The rumor of an additional, hidden fourth episode for Sherlock started brewing following the broadcast of the second episode in season 4, titled “The Lying Detective”. This was sparked by Toby Jones’ character, Culverton Smith, who hinted at a pattern of giving up after three, which some took as a wink towards a fourth episode. Furthermore, speculation rose that the series finale, “The Final Problem”, might have been a delirious dream experienced by John, who had been wounded by Eurus in a comatose state.

In “The Lying Detective,” Eurus, Sherlock’s sister who was a brilliant criminal mind, unveiled her true identity as Watson’s therapist at the end of the episode. If Watson had simply been dreaming the events of the finale, then the entire episode could have been considered a false ending. Instead, it is suggested that the secret episode might have been the actual reality.

A Lost Episode Could Have Fixed Sherlock’s Season 4 Problems

Sherlock Season 4 Is Plagued With Problems

Season 4 is often criticized as Sherlock‘s weakest season due to its disorganized plotlines, inconsistencies, and the unconvincing and illogical finale twist involving Eurus’ plan. After Mary’s death, Holmes and Watson experienced significant turmoil; however, their problems were conveniently resolved through a video message that Mary had previously recorded for them both.

In Sherlock, Holmes and Watson reunited for a final adventure, hinting at new mysteries along the way. However, the conclusion seemed hurried and incomplete, leaving behind unanswered questions and plot inconsistencies. A hidden fourth episode could have addressed these issues by delving into Eurus’ actions and providing more time for Holmes and Watson to reconcile and join forces once more.

An alternative approach for the fourth installment might delve into the consequences of the fateful phone call where Holmes confessed his love to Molly, given her lingering affection towards him. Regrettably, it’s a pity that the elusive fourth episode, which was merely a legend, never materialized.

Apple Tree Yard Is Worth Checking Out (& It’s Only Four Episodes Long)

Apple Tree Yard Has A 92% Score On Rotten Tomatoes

While Apple Tree Yard doesn’t share any connection with Sherlock, it’s definitely worth giving a watch. In fact, Apple Tree Yard is a gripping psychological thriller adapted from Louise Doughty’s 2013 novel of the same name. The series follows Yvonne (played by Emily Watson), who embarks on a passionate affair with an enigmatic man known only as Mr. X (Ben Chaplin).

In Apple Tree Yvonne’s life, a devastating event occurs when she’s assaulted by a coworker she had previously rebuffed, causing significant strain not just in her relationship with Mr. X but also in her career. Since Apple Tree Yard is a four-episode series, it’s simple to watch through at your leisure. Although there’s no connection between Sherlock and Apple Tree Yard, the latter is certainly worth exploring.

2025-07-05 17:20