The BBC crime drama Rebus, adapted from Sir Ian Rankin's bestselling novels, has earned a rare 100% score on Rotten Tomatoes, with critics hailing it as a worthy rival to gritty fan-favourite Happy Valley.
The six-episode miniseries, first broadcast in May 2024, stars Scottish actor Richard Rankin as the titular Detective John Rebus. Each episode was written by Gregory Burke and directed by Niall MacCormick and Fiona Walton.
Critical Acclaim and Charismatic Lead
Critics have lavished praise on Richard Rankin's portrayal of the world-weary detective. One reviewer noted: "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." Another added: "Rankin has lashings of charisma. Requiring no previous knowledge of the character, it is a most welcome revival."
The series follows Rebus as he faces off against a notorious Edinburgh gangster while navigating personal turmoil following his divorce. A second series was commissioned in July 2025, expected to air in 2027.
Comparison to Previous Adaptations
This is not the first television adaptation of Rankin's novels. Between 2000 and 2007, 13 novels were adapted across four series, with John Hannah playing Rebus in the first series and Ken Stott taking over for the subsequent three.
Rebus is available to stream now on BBC iPlayer.
