Scotland takes centre stage in ‘Rebus’, the latest BBC crime drama to hit screens. The six-part crime series is based on the best-selling Inspector Rebus novels by Ian Rankin and is set to become the defining adaptation of the Scottish detective.
Here’s all you need to know about ‘Rebus’ and its Scottish filming locations.
What is Rebus about?
The series follows the titular detective, John Rebus, who finds himself at a psychological crossroads after a violent encounter with gangster Cafferty. The detective’s loyalty come into question when his ex-soldier brother Michael becomes embroiled in shady dealings to provide for his family.
And the drama in his career pales in comparison with Rebus’ personal life. He’s stuck in a toxic affair that ge needs to bring to a close, and is all but replaced in his daughter’s life by his ex-wife’s wealthy new husband.
Where was Rebus filmed?
Grassmarket and Victoria Street
Once used for public executions and crowded markets, these days the picturesque Grassmarket is swarming with tourists posing for their perfect Instagram shot, with the cobbled streets, hidden streets and vibrant colourful buildings that range from quirky shops, cosy cafés and pubs dating back to the 18th century.
The area is located on the doorstep of Edinburgh Castle, so keep your eyes peeled for the historic fortress too.
George Heriot’s School
Founded in 1628 and with architecture reflecting the Renaissance period, George Heriot’s School is thought to be the inspiration behind Hogwarts in the Harry Potter franchise.
In ‘Rebus’, it’s used as the school John’s daughter Sammy attends.
The Oxford Bar
In the series, Rebus can be seen kicking back with a pint after a long day of chasing criminals and trying to keep his personal life intact.
His watering hole of choice is The Oxford Bar in Edinburgh’s historic New Town, with the pub also being a favourite of author Ian Rankin (he even used it for his stag party).
The Mound
Situated in the heart of the city, The Mound is a steep hill that connects Edinburgh’s Old and New Towns. New College, part of the University of Edinburgh, is located at the top, with the National Gallery of Scotland at the foot of hill.
National Library of Scotland
‘Rebus’ features interior shots of the National Library of Scotland, with the show taking advantage of its distinctive corridors and hidden nooks.
The library is home to an extensive archive of author Ian Rankin’s manuscripts, handwritten notebooks and early works dating back to his time in school in Fife in the 1970s. Other notable items in the library’s collection include the First Folio of Shakespeare, the last letter written by Mary Queen of Scots, and the largest collection of Scottish Gaelic material of any library in the world.
When is Rebus on TV?
Rebus will air on Saturday evenings at 9.25pm on BBC One from Saturday, May 18. Audiences in Scotland can catch the action a day earlier with episodes airing on Friday nights at 10pm on BBC Scotland.
All six episodes are available on BBC iPlayer now.
Who is in the Rebus cast?
Richard Rankin takes on the lead role of Detective Sergeant John Rebus, who juggles his intense career with a personal life that is just as dramatic and complicated as his day job. The Scottish actor has previously appeared in hit TV shows like The Last Kingdom, Outlander and Midsomer Murders.
The role of Michael Rebus has been expanded for screen, with a much more prominent role than in the books. Michael is a broke ex-soldier who puts his law enforcer brother John in an agonising position after he goes to extreme lengths to provide for his family. He’s played by Glaswegian actor Brian Ferguson (Line of Duty, The Ipcress File).
Lucie Shorthouse (The Long Shadow and Line of Duty) plays Siobhan Clarke, a new detective constable who is determined to prove herself in a male-dominated profession.
Other cast members include Cassidy Little (The King’s Man) as Gary ‘Cammy’ Campbell; newcomer Cailean Galloway as Liam Rebus; Patrick O’Brien (Peaky Blinders) as Davey Matteson; Michelle Duncan (Bohemian Rhapsody) as Maggie Blantyre; Sean Buchanan (Mary Queen of Scots) as George Blantyre; Ryan Hayes (The Witcher) as Alan Fowler.
Is there a trailer for Rebus?
Aye! Check out the clip below for a teaser of what to expect when Rebus hits screens.