John Hannah stars as Detective Inspector John Rebus, with Ken Stott later taking over the role in later series; the show follows the gritty Edinburgh-based investigations of the flawed yet brilliant detective.
Main cast
- DI John RebusJohn Hannah1–2Main
- DI John RebusKen Stott3–4Main
- DS Siobhan ClarkeClaire Price1–2Main
- DS Siobhan ClarkeJennifer Black3–4Main
- DCS Gill TemplerAndrea McKenna1–4Main
Supporting cast
- DS Jack HoltKen Stott1–2Supp
- DS George SilversJohn Good1–4Supp
- DC Brian HolmesGavin Mitchell1–4Supp
- DC Derek LinfordRon Donachie1–4Supp
- Molly Rebus (John’s wife)Gayanne Potter1–2Supp
Guest & voice
- Big Ger CaffertyJames Cosmo1–4Guest
- Marlene Rebus (John’s sister)Louise Ludgate1–2Guest
- Dr. Emma ForbesSara Stewart1–2Guest
- Professor PrenticeTom Watson1Guest
- DCI Colin McCaigBrian Cox1Guest
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About this cast
Rebus is a critically acclaimed BBC crime drama based on Ian Rankin’s novels. The series stars John Hannah (Series 1–2) and later Ken Stott (Series 3–4) as the titular Detective Inspector John Rebus, supported by a recurring ensemble of Edinburgh police colleagues and adversaries.
FAQs
Who plays DI John Rebus in Rebus?
John Hannah plays Rebus in Series 1–2; Ken Stott takes over in Series 3–4.
How many seasons of Rebus are there?
There are four series (often called seasons) aired on BBC One from 2000 to 2007.
Is Rebus based on the books by Ian Rankin?
Yes, each episode adapts one of Ian Rankin’s Inspector Rebus novels, set in Edinburgh.
Does Ken Stott appear in early series?
Yes, but only in a supporting role as DS Jack Holt before he took over the lead.
Where was Rebus filmed?
Primarily in and around Edinburgh, with many locations used to match the gritty atmosphere of the novels.
Sources & where to watch: IMDb · Wikipedia · Where to watch (JustWatch UK) · Updated June 2026