Scottish crime writer Sir Ian Rankin is marking nearly four decades since the creation of his iconic character, Inspector John Rebus, while also launching a new standalone novel. The Edinburgh-based author reflected on the longevity of his detective series, with next year marking the 40th anniversary of Rebus’s debut.
Rankin, 66, acknowledged his close connection to the character, whom he has developed for more than 40 years, surpassing many personal relationships in duration. The Rebus novels have extended their reach beyond literature, adapted for television with multiple actors portraying the detective, including John Hannah, Ken Stott, and most recently Richard Rankin in a BBC reboot. Filming on the second series of this modern reinterpretation has recently been completed.
Despite the character’s enduring popularity, Rankin is contemplating retirement. He noted encouragement from his wife, Miranda Harvey, to slow down and enjoy life, particularly since he became eligible for a pension. Reflecting on his career, he admitted that his intense focus on writing earlier on often came at the expense of fully engaging with family life.
Rankin described productive periods of his career when financial need drove a demanding pace of two books per year. Now financially secure, he is able to write less frequently, estimating new novels every two to five years. However, he acknowledged that fresh ideas are not as easily forthcoming as in the past.
Departing temporarily from the Rebus universe, Rankin’s latest work, *The Heights*, is his first standalone thriller in two decades. Set in a luxury high-rise overlooking London’s Hyde Park, the novel blends elements of crime and social commentary. The plot centers on the murder of a night concierge and follows detective Gillian Gish as she navigates the intersecting worlds of wealth, power, and service staff in contemporary London.
Rankin’s inspiration for *The Heights* came partially from observations of London’s stark economic disparities and oligarchic presence. Initially conceived as a film project, the story evolved from a short story into the current full-length novel. The TV rights have been optioned, with a potential six- to eight-hour series in development, though Rankin remains cautious given his past experiences with adapting Rebus for television. He prefers creative control and has not been asked to write the script.
Regarding his involvement with Rebus television adaptations, Rankin said he was previously more detached but has taken a more active role as an executive producer on the new series. This position allows him to review scripts and contribute feedback, which he said the production team has welcomed.
Speaking about changes in crime fiction over time, Rankin observed a shift in thematic focus. While earlier works by authors like Agatha Christie dealt with different audience fears, contemporary crime stories often explore paranoia related to technology and mistrust within personal relationships.
Throughout the Rebus novels, social issues have remained central themes, including child abuse, political corruption, and the impact of unemployment. Rankin emphasized that beneath the crime stories lie larger moral questions about good and evil and the nature of wrongdoing.
He also expressed concern over global political uncertainties, the threat of nuclear conflict, and climate change. Looking ahead to Rebus’s 40th anniversary, Rankin plans to engage in a series of events, including international tours, which he hopes to frame as an opportunity for both professional celebration and personal travel.