The BBC drama with Benedict Cumberbatch drew 11.3 million viewers on New Year’s Day

This article is more than 3 years old

This article is more than 3 years old

Sherlock was the most-watched TV programme over the festive season for the second year running.

The BBC1 detective drama, starring Benedict Cumberbatch as the titular detective and Martin Freeman as Dr Watson, returned for a fourth series on New Year’s Day.

Consolidated viewing figures show that the 90-minute episode drew 11.3 million viewers. Entitled The Six Thatchers – an update of the original Sherlock Holmes story The Adventure of the Six Napoleons – it had a audience share of 37.8%.

Last year, Sherlock: The Abominable Bride topped the festive ratings, with 11.6 million viewers. The conclusion of the new series, Sherlock: The Final Problem, will air on Sunday at 9pm on BBC1.