BBC’s Rebus to return for second series

Based on the best-selling books by Ian Rankin and filmed in and around Edinburgh and Glasgow, the new series will continue to explore Rebus’s complex world as he navigates Scottish crime and personal conflict.

Richard Rankin reprises the role of Detective Sergeant John Rebus, who will “explore the links between violent criminals involved in the drug trade in Edinburgh and the professional bourgeois world of law and finance, where police sometimes fear to tread”.

Ian Rankin, who serves as an executive producer on the show, said: “Season one of Rebus ended on a cliffhanger. Only screenwriter Gregory Burke knows what happens next.

“So I’m hugely excited that season two will soon be with us. Rebus is back – mean, moody and as magnificent as ever!”

Paula Cuddy, executive producer and co-CEO at production company Eleventh Hour Films, added: “After three wins at the RTS Scotland Awards 2025, we couldn’t be more thrilled to now share that we are reuniting with Ian Rankin’s celebrated Scottish detective, brilliantly portrayed by Richard Rankin, to bring a second series of Rebus to the BBC.

“No doubt it’ll pack a punch and there’ll be some sardonic Rebus comments along the way. We can’t wait!”

Writer Gregory Burke said: “I’m delighted to be given the chance by the BBC and Eleventh Hour Films to bring Rebus back to the nation’s TV screens once more.

“Ian Rankin’s character and body of work are the perfect materials with which to explore contemporary Scottish society and the turbulent world that surrounds it.”

The first series of Rebus is currently available to stream in full on BBC iPlayer.