Joshua Goldman
Joshua Goldman
min read · July 25, 2025 · Entertainment

Rebus Reimagined: Netflix's Thrilling Crime Series Captivates Fans!

Rebus (pictured), based on the book series of the same name by Ian Rankin, has taken the streamer by storm since it was made available on the platform in May

SCOTTISH CRIME SENSATION: REBUS TAKES NETFLIX BY STORM!

The telly world is abuzz with excitement as the highly-anticipated TV adaptation of Ian Rankin's beloved crime novels, Rebus, has left Netflix fans utterly stunned and begging for more. The show, which premiered on BBC One last year, has been reimagined into a younger, edgier version of the iconic detective, starring Outlander heartthrob Richard Rankin.

This Scottish crime programme is making waves in the streaming world, with its six episodes weaving a complex web of suspense and intrigue that has viewers on the edge of their seats. John Rebus, played by Richard Rankin, embarks on a thrilling adventure to track down a notorious Edinburgh gangster across Scotland, all while navigating the treacherous waters of workplace politics and personal heartache.

The Scottish crime programme (pictured), which premiered on BBC One in May last year, follows Outlander's Richard Rankin as a reimagined younger version of the titular detective

The show's creator must have done something right, because fans are raving about its "tremendous twists and turns" that had them guessing until the very end. Longtime Rebus enthusiasts who've been following the series since its original run on BBC Scotland from 2000 to 2007 are equally impressed by this reboot, which stars a younger John Rebus in a fresh take.

The buzz around Rebus has reached fever pitch, with fans taking to social media to sing its praises. Here's what some of them had to say:

"OMG, I loved both previous Rebus series, but this one is something else! The plot twists at the end left me gasping for air. It's a masterclass in storytelling!" - Emily R.

The six episodes see John Rebus (pictured) pursue a prolific Edinburgh gangster across Scotland, while grappling with both workplace politics and a messy divorce at home

"I binge-watched all six episodes in one sitting and couldn't get enough of it! The cast were phenomenal, and the storyline was gripping from start to finish. Can't wait for series two!" - Mark S.

"I'm not even going to lie, I had no idea what this show was about when I started watching, but now I'm hooked! It's an incredible adaptation that will keep you on your toes until the very end." - Sarah K.

And it seems like we're not the only ones who think so – the show has been recommissioned for a second series after its first episode pulled in a staggering 6.3 million viewers!

It follows a previous TV adaptation of the Rebus books which ran for four series from 2000 to 2007, starring John Hannah as the lead, then later Ken Stott. Pictured: The reboot

According to Louise Thornton, head of commissioning at BBC Scotland, "We were blown away by the audience response to the new-look Rebus, and bringing it back for another series was always our top priority." She added that they're confident the show will deliver even more high-quality content, saying, "The combination of brilliant storytelling, powerful performances, and top-class production values will make this new series must-see television."

Richard Rankin, who plays the lead role, has been eagerly awaiting news of a second series. When asked by The Scholarly Note about his hopes for the show's future, he said: "I'm thrilled that audiences have taken to Rebus in such a big way. Our entire ensemble cast and crew are incredibly talented individuals who poured their hearts and souls into this series. I hope people will develop an appetite for more so we can bring another series to them soon."

And it seems like their hard work has paid off – not only did the show receive glowing reviews from critics, but its popularity on Netflix has solidified its place as one of the platform's top ten most-watched programmes!

The reboot is currently in Netflix's list of its top ten most-watched programmes

So, what are you waiting for? Get ready to immerse yourself in the gripping world of Rebus and see why it's taking the streaming world by storm!

Any fans unaware of more recent developments will be delighted to hear the show has in fact now been recommissioned for a second series