The BBC crime drama Rebus, adapted from Sir Ian Rankin's bestselling novels, has been hailed by critics as 'so alluring' and 'most welcome,' drawing comparisons to the beloved series Happy Valley. The six-episode miniseries, which first aired in May 2024, has earned a perfect 100% score on the review aggregator Rotten Tomatoes.
Critical Acclaim for Richard Rankin's Performance
Scottish actor Richard Rankin, no relation to the author, stars as Detective John Rebus, a world-weary and cynical officer navigating a high-stakes confrontation with a notorious Edinburgh gangster while dealing with personal turmoil from a recent divorce. Critics have praised his portrayal as 'so believable' and full of 'lashings of charisma.'
One critic remarked: 'Part of what makes this Rebus so alluring is down to the beautifully concise manner in which the actor who plays him conveys his haphazard competence, his stoicism and feral endurance. He is so believable.' Another added: 'Richard Rankin is so perfectly believable in the role that you never tire of watching him and keep rooting for him even when he's being a complete and utter idiot.'
Series Background and Renewal
Each episode was written by Gregory Burke and directed by Niall MacCormick and Fiona Walton. The series is the latest adaptation of Ian Rankin's iconic detective, following previous versions starring John Hannah (2000–2001) and Ken Stott (2006–2007), which spanned 13 novels across four series. A second series of the current adaptation was commissioned in July 2025, with a release expected in 2027.
Critics have noted the show's uncompromising approach: 'Rebus is a big name in fictional detectives, but this show makes a point of not pulling its punches for the ease of the casual viewer.' Another reviewer described the series as 'a most welcome revival,' adding that 'Rankin has lashings of charisma' and that no prior knowledge of the character is required.
Rebus is streaming now on BBC iPlayer.
