Bloody Scotland Festival Unveils 2025 Lineup with Ian Rankin as Guest Programmer

The Bloody Scotland International Crime Writing Festival returns to Stirling in September 2025 with a star-studded lineup curated by guest programmer Sir Ian Rankin, creator of detective John Rebus. The festival will feature renowned authors such as Kate Atkinson, making her first appearance to discuss her Jackson Brodie novels, Kathy Reichs, Jo Nesbo, Terry Deary, and Adam Kay, alongside broadcasters Steph McGovern, Jeremy Vine, and The Rev Richard Coles. Special homage to Rankin's iconic character includes appearances by James McPherson, narrator of the Rebus audiobooks, and Gray O’Brien, who recently portrayed Rebus on stage. Fringe events include a "Day of the Deid" procession led by Rankin and a whisky night featuring live music and author talks. The festival prides itself on being inclusive and welcoming, offering a platform for both top established authors and emerging voices in crime fiction. Festival director Bob McDevitt and Creative Scotland's Alan Bett highlighted the event's strength and importance in fostering new Scottish talent and attracting a global audience.