Rebus star Richard Rankin has opened up and given his honest opinion on the possibility of a second series of the crime drama.
The BBC1 series, written by Gregory Burke, is a “reimagining” of Ian Rankin’s popular Edinburgh-set detective novels and now follows the policeman’s exploits in his youth.
It follows other reboots of the books, including the hugely popular ITV series which aired between 2000 and 2007 starring John Hannah and then Ken Stott.
The new series premiered on Friday, May 17, and Richard, known for his role in Outlander, was optimistic about the likelihood of another installment.
He told the BBC: “I hope people take away what we put into it. The entire cast and crew are immensely talented people who brought their A-game to the series.”
Rebus star Richard Rankin has opened up and given his honest opinion on the possibility of a second series of the crime drama.
The new series premiered on Friday, May 17, and Richard, known for his role in Outlander, was optimistic about the likelihood of another installment.
‘I think that really shows. I hope audiences develop an appetite for more so we can bring them another series later.”
He adds: “I really hope people fall in love with Rebus like we do.”
At the time of writing, the BBC has not yet announced whether the show will have a second season.
Given that there are 24 novels following the life of Inspector John Rebus, the show’s writers certainly have the material to continue the story.
However, some critics did not react well after watching the first episode, especially its brutal opening scenes.
The first episode of the prequel begins with Rebus attempting to suffocate a famous gangster in the back of an ambulance. Only the intervention of a commanding officer prevents murder.
“The BBC’s new version of Rebus is so violent and uncompromisingly bleak that I had to force myself to continue watching it beyond the first five minutes,” said dismayed TV critic Kathryn Flett.
He added: “I suspect the most discerning viewers won’t care, they’ll back off.” I have already paid.
The BBC1 series is billed as a “reimagining” of Ian Rankin’s popular Edinburgh-set detective novels (pictured), and now follows the policeman’s exploits in his youth.
Some critics did not react well after watching the first episode, especially its brutal opening scenes. Pictured: John Rebus and Darryl Christie face off on the show.
However, some fans disagree and have taken to X (formerly Twitter) to praise the reboot and ask for a second season.
“I didn’t want to spend time with Gregory Burke’s version of Rebus because he’s clearly a violently deranged bully and life is too short to be rejected in the name of entertainment.”
However, some fans disagree and have taken to X (formerly Twitter) to praise the reboot and ask for a second season:
“The new #Rebus is excellent.”
‘I’ve seen the full new film “Rebus” and it’s fantastic, right down to the climax, which may be too close to reality for some Highland viewers.
“Brilliantly acted, with Aberdeenshire’s Richard Rankin and Amy Manson in the lead. Bring on series two! #Hieroglyphic.”
‘Lovely seeing the AMAZING @NoofOusellam on my TV in #Rebus. I just caught up on the penultimate episode! Intense to say the least! Wow!!’
‘He’s great, just how I imagined a young Rebus. Season 2, please.’
“The best I’ve seen in a long time”.
‘Brilliant indeed, with magnificent performances! At first he wasn’t sure, he was expecting a young Rebus in a retro vibe, but it worked perfectly! Yes, more please!!!’
The Rebus reboot is now available to watch on BBC iPlayer