Written by: Lisa Chang

Richard Rankin: The Scottish Actor Who Captivated Hearts in Outlander

A Career Born from Chance Encounters

Richard Rankin, born Richard Harris, is a Scottish film, television, and theatre actor best known for his roles in the Scottish sketch show Burnistoun and as Roger Wakefield MacKenzie in the popular Starz drama Outlander.

A chance encounter with a film producer at the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel during a holiday in Los Angeles led Rankin to pursue a career in acting, deviating from his original plans to major in IT or sciences.

Early Life and Education

Rankin was born on January 4, 1983, in Rutherglen, Scotland, and spent part of his childhood in the East End of Glasgow. He later moved to Kings Park at the age of 10 and attended Stonelaw High School.

One of four boys born to a police officer father and a mother in the hotel industry, Rankin's initial passion lay in the sciences and IT. He attended Glasgow Caledonian University as an IT major but changed course after the fateful meeting in Los Angeles.

Career Highlights

Rankin began his professional career in 2006, starring alongside Robert Florence in the Scottish video game show VideoGaiden, originally aired on BBC Two Scotland.

He went on to make appearances in various Scottish television programs, including Legit (2007) and The Old Guys (2009) for the BBC, and Taggart (2010) for STV.

Rankin's breakout role came with the Scottish sketch comedy series Burnistoun, which premiered in 2009 and ran for three series on BBC Two Scotland. He took on various roles in the show, showcasing his versatility as an actor.

In 2014, Rankin was cast as lovelorn Army Captain Thomas Gillan in the WWI-based miniseries The Crimson Field, alongside Kevin Doyle and Oona Chaplin. The program aired on BBC One but only ran for one series.

Roger Wakefield MacKenzie and Outlander

Rankin's most notable role to date is that of Roger Wakefield MacKenzie in the Starz drama Outlander, based on the novels by Diana Gabaldon.

His portrayal of the charming and loyal Roger has captured the hearts of audiences worldwide, making him a fan favorite in the popular series.

Philosophical Contributions and Beliefs

Through his work, Rankin has demonstrated a strong commitment to portraying complex characters with depth and nuance. He has spoken about the importance of empathy and understanding in his approach to acting.

In an era where representation matters, Rankin's roles have contributed to a more diverse and inclusive landscape in Scottish television and beyond.

Personal Milestones and Key Life Events

When applying for his Equity card, Rankin adopted his mother's maiden name, Rankin, to avoid confusion with Irish actor Richard Harris.

He has been open about the importance of family and relationships in his life, often sharing glimpses into his personal life on social media.

Awards and Honors

Although Rankin has not received any major awards for his work, his performances have been widely praised by critics and audiences alike.

His contribution to Scottish television and his commitment to his craft have made him a respected figure in the industry.

Impact on Modern Society

Through his work in Outlander, Rankin has helped to promote Scottish culture and heritage to a global audience.

His portrayal of Roger Wakefield MacKenzie has inspired fans to explore the world of Outlander, driving tourism and interest in Scotland's rich history and landscapes.

Inspirational Stories and Motivations

Rankin's journey from IT major to successful actor serves as a testament to the power of chance encounters and following one's passion.

His dedication to his craft and his commitment to playing complex, nuanced characters have made him an inspiration to aspiring actors and fans alike.