Richard Rankin, born Richard Harris on January 4, 1983, in Rutherglen, Scotland, is an actor best known for his compelling portrayal of Roger MacKenzie in the critically acclaimed television series Outlander. Rankin’s journey from aspiring actor to renowned television star is marked by his dedication to his craft and his ability to bring depth to complex characters.
Richard Rankin grew up in Rutherglen, a suburb of Glasgow, where he developed an early interest in acting. His formative years were spent immersed in the arts, and he pursued his passion by studying drama at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland (formerly known as the Royal Scottish Academy of Music and Drama). This education provided Rankin with a solid foundation in acting and set the stage for his future career in television and film.
Before gaining widespread recognition, Rankin appeared in several stage productions and television shows, building his experience and honing his skills. His early work included roles in British series such as The Syndicate (2012), a show that explores the lives of lottery winners, and Burnistoun (2009-2012), a Scottish sketch comedy series. These roles allowed Rankin to showcase his versatility and range as an actor.
Richard Rankin’s career took a significant turn when he was cast as Roger MacKenzie in the television adaptation of Diana Gabaldon’s popular Outlander series. The show, which debuted in 2014, is a historical drama that combines elements of romance, science fiction, and adventure. Rankin joined the cast in the third season, which aired in 2017, and quickly became a fan favorite for his portrayal of the intelligent and compassionate historian who becomes a pivotal character in the series.
Roger MacKenzie is a character with a rich and complex backstory, and Rankin’s performance has been praised for its depth and emotional resonance. His portrayal of Roger, who is both a loving partner and a brave individual navigating the challenges of time travel and historical conflict, has been integral to the series’ success and has garnered Rankin significant acclaim.
Following his success on Outlander, Rankin continued to build on his growing popularity with a variety of roles in television and film. He appeared in the BBC One drama The Cry (2018), which delves into the emotional and legal turmoil surrounding a missing child case. Rankin’s performance in the series further demonstrated his ability to tackle diverse and challenging roles.
Additionally, Rankin has been involved in other projects, including roles in The Loch (2017), a crime drama set in a Scottish village with a dark secret, and The Devil’s Hour (2022), a psychological thriller exploring the complexities of crime and morality.
Outside of his professional work, Richard Rankin is known for his dedication to his craft and his commitment to his personal growth as an actor. He is active in supporting various charitable causes and uses his platform to advocate for issues close to his heart.
Richard Rankin’s journey from his early days in Rutherglen to his acclaimed role as Roger MacKenzie in Outlander exemplifies his dedication to acting and his ability to connect with audiences through powerful performances. As he continues to take on new and diverse roles, Rankin’s career remains one to watch, reflecting his talent and versatility as an actor in the ever-evolving landscape of television and film.
