The residents of 221B Baker Street will come alive in 2014 as "Sherlock" season 3 premieres on Jan. 19 at 10 p.m., followed by an episode of season 4 of "Downton Abbey". The edge-of-the-seat detective series will return to PBS Masterpiece.

The announcement ends close to two years of speculation about when the third season of "Sherlock" will hit the air waves. It is worth noting here that U.S. air date of the show has been announced before BBC unveils its U.K. air date. But, U.K. fans will watch "Sherlock" season 3 premiere episode before anyone as BBC has the first window rights to release the show.

Rebecca Eaton, executive producer - Masterpiece, told EW that the "Sherlock" season 3 is the best season of mystery-thriller series. She remarked that new episodes can be compared to small films and they are nothing short of fantastic. Benedict Cumberbatch will return as the iconic detective while Martin Freeman as Dr. Watson. Eaton also commented that Cumberbatch and Martin are tightly in the Sherlock-Watson groove and they are comfortable with each other.

Beth Hoppe PBS chief commented that they love how "Sherlock" devotees are passionate and eagerly waiting for season 3. Hoppe also remarked that airing "Downton Abbey and "Sherlock" back-to-back on PBS will result in a blockbuster night of British drama.

"Sherlock" Season 3 Spoilers

The first episode titled "The Empty Hearse" is about "Sherlock's" death, in this episode, the mystery will be solved. The second episode called "The Sign of Three" showcases Watson tying the knot with Mary Morstan (the character of Mary is played by Freeman's partner Amanda Abbington). The third episode is called "The Last Vow" and hits the air waves on Feb. 2, 2014.

Are you ready for "Sherlock" season 3? The "Sherlock's" new season is, perhaps, one of the most awaited. We are sure it will be live up to fans' expectations.