Outlander star's gritty detective drama set in Edinburgh lands on Netflix
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Outlander sensation Richard Rankin's acclaimed series, Rebus, has just landed on Netflix UK, marking the second screen adaptation of Sir Ian Rankin's celebrated Inspector Rebus novels. The beloved series kicked off in 1987 and continues to captivate readers with a whopping 25 stories to date.
In the television adaptation, Outlander's very own Richard embodies the sleuth as he grapples with taking down an Edinburgh crime syndicate while juggling his personal demons.
The programme was lauded by critics upon its debut, securing an impressive 100% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes based on 12 critiques.
Richard's portrayal earned him rave reviews, with The Spectator noting: "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."
(Image: BBC)
The New Statesman added its voice, remarking: "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."
Originally broadcast on BBC One, the series trails John Rebus as he navigates life post-divorce and a transforming work environment.
This self-contained series spans six episodes, and Richard has previously shared his thoughts on stepping into such a legendary role.
Chatting with Digital Spy, he expressed: "He's one of the, I suppose, most iconic Scottish detectives, and is still very much present in Ian Rankin's novels. He's got such a big fanbase.
"So I think taking it on, I was probably aware that there'd be certain expectations and anticipation.
"And they would have their own version of what they think the character should look like – which I think is good to be aware of."
He elaborated: "To do the character as much justice as possible, I think you have to just acknowledge that, and park it, because you're not going to be able to give every version of everyone's expectations."
The actor revealed investing significant time in researching the role, disclosing his engagement with a number of the Rebus novels.
His aim was to reinterpret the character and stamp his mark on the role, highlighting that the series was "not a reboot or sequel".
The Guardian lauded Richard as "the most irresistible incarnation yet", praising: "Richard Rankin's Rebus is physical, forceful and irresistible, his eyes twinkling by default yet capable of glazing over with regret or being suddenly clouded by crimson mist."
Rebus is available to watch on Netflix
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