The first series is very different in both format and style. Hannah's portrayal of Rankin's world-weary detective was questioned by many who knew the books, as he did not physically match their image of Rebus. Hannah himself has said he felt forced into the role, having been executive producer, when his own choice for the role,
Peter Mullan, was rejected by STV. Hannah's interpretation of the inspector has been viewed as deeper than the later productions, using narration to expand the viewers insight into the character's thoughts, or to reveal background information, which never occurs during Stott's tenure. The earlier stories also retained the darkness of the novels and were more faithful to the original storylines, while longer running times meant that each story could be less ruthless with Rankin's many asides and sub-plots. "The First Stone" is the first and only story to be featured throughout the series which is not based upon a full
Rebus novel, rather a novella from a collection of short stories. "Knots and Crosses" is the only story which, despite bearing the name of a Rankin book, does not share the plot. ==Cancellation==