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Richard Rankin Steps into the World of Rebus

As the beloved series Outlander approaches its conclusion, Richard Rankin is already exploring a new character in a darker setting. The Scottish actor takes on the iconic role of John Rebus in a reimagined adaptation of Ian Rankin’s acclaimed novels. In this fresh portrayal, Rankin casts himself as a younger Detective Sergeant navigating the complexities of contemporary Edinburgh.

At the beginning of the series, Rebus faces a setback, having been demoted following an altercation with infamous mobster Ger Cafferty. He’s caught in a personal turmoil involving an unhealthy relationship with his mentor’s wife, while also feeling estranged from his daughter due to the influence of his ex-wife’s affluent spouse. This sense of dislocation prompts Rebus to reflect on his identity as both a police officer and a father.

A shocking attack in broad daylight pulls Rebus and his new partner, Detective Constable Siobhan Clarke, into the volatile world of gang warfare. The situation becomes increasingly dire when Rebus’s brother, Michael, resorts to theft from drug dealers in a bid to support his family. This moral dilemma forces Rebus to weigh familial loyalty against his duty as an officer of the law and tests his ability to navigate the ethical gray areas of his life.

Before Rebus debuts on U.S. streaming platforms, Rankin shares insights about stepping into this role and reflects on his past with Outlander.

Intrigued by the Source Material

How familiar were you with the Rebus novels prior to taking on this role?

Richard Rankin: I’ve read several of the books throughout the years, and upon revisiting them, I found myself really enjoying their depth. Ian Rankin has an extraordinary talent for storytelling, evidenced by the numerous books featuring the same character—a true testament to their quality and the public’s interest. Personally, I tend to lean more towards fantasy rather than crime fiction.

Learning from Life Experience

Your father’s career as a police officer—did that inform your approach to this character?

Absolutely. I’ve portrayed police officers in the past, and I’ve drawn upon my father’s experiences and insights. Rebus represents a different kind of character than I’ve played before, so much of my preparation relied on the novels themselves. The script provided ample context, yet I felt it was essential to delve deeper into the lore to authentically embody Rebus.

Contrasting Characters

How do you compare Rebus to your previous character, Roger, from Outlander?

The two characters are fundamentally distinct, separated by time and circumstances. The research process for both roles, however, was quite similar. It’s rare to have such extensive literary material to draw upon for a character. This abundance helps in understanding audience expectations and the character’s legacy, which is invaluable for an actor.

A Desire for Versatility

Was this role an opportunity for you to showcase a different side of your acting ability?

Versatility is something I prioritize as an actor. Being given the chance to step into diverse roles is crucial for my growth. Throughout the filming of Outlander, I actively sought other projects to keep my creativity alive. While I didn’t specifically seek a role to prove my versatility, the opportunity with Rebus surfaced at the right time.

Complexity of Character

How would you describe Rebus’s character arc this season?

Rebus is undoubtedly flawed and caught in a web of moral ambiguity. His motivations are tangled, especially in relation to his brother’s actions. While he appears to seek justice, he operates outside conventional boundaries, which complicates his sense of right and wrong. He embodies an older worldview, often preferring a more primal form of justice over modern legal principles.

Timeless Themes

The opening scene of the series powerfully illustrates these themes. Rebus’s emotional response to Cafferty highlights both personal and societal tensions, particularly concerning class disparities within Edinburgh. The narrative deliberately emphasizes this divide, prompting reflections on social status and moral responsibility across various community strata. Gregory Burke’s writing skillfully weaves these elements into Rebus’s narrative, offering sharp social commentary.

Reaction to the Show’s Success

It’s incredibly rewarding to witness the positive reception of the show. From inception to execution, I’ve felt proud to be part of a production that remained true to its original vision. The director’s commitment to maintaining the artistic integrity of the concept has resulted in a product that resonates strongly with audiences.

Looking Ahead

With the impending release of Rebus in the U.S., as well as the second half of Outlander’s seventh season, Rankin reflects on the end of an era. He acknowledges the profound impact of Outlander, which has occupied a significant place in his life for nearly a decade. The absence of the show is akin to a void, yet it opens up new possibilities for future projects.

What could be next for Rebus?

I see tremendous potential for future storylines with Rebus. The character comes from a richly detailed universe, and I believe there are countless directions in which we could explore his journey. Greg possesses a wealth of creativity that will surely pave the way for more compelling narratives.

Premiere Details

Rebus will make its U.S. premiere on November 7, available on the Viaplay U.S. streaming service as an add-on to Prime Video Channels.

Source
www.tvinsider.com