Rab C Nesbitt' Stars Reunite After 26 Years

For fans of classic British comedy, few shows hold the same nostalgic charm as Rab C. Nesbitt. The irreverent Scottish sitcom, which aired from 1988 to 1999 with a brief revival in 2008, captured the gritty humor and working-class struggles of Glasgow through the eyes of its titular character, Rab C. Nesbitt, played by Gregor Fisher. Now, after 26 years since the original run ended, Fisher and his co-star Tony Roper, who portrayed Rab’s hapless best friend Jamesie Cotter, have reunited — and fans can’t contain their excitement.

The reunion took place in an intimate gathering, with Fisher sharing a candid photo on social media that instantly went viral. The image showed the duo sitting side by side, grinning like old pals who had picked up exactly where they left off. For long-time viewers of the show, the picture was a powerful reminder of the comedic chemistry that made Rab C. Nesbitt such an enduring cult classic.

A Show That Defined an Era

When Rab C. Nesbitt first hit the airwaves, it was unlike anything else on TV. The series followed Rab, an unemployed, perpetually drunk “philosopher” who stomped around Govan in a threadbare string vest and headband, spouting hilariously cynical monologues about life, politics, and the state of the nation. His relationship with his long-suffering wife Mary (Elaine C. Smith) and his dodgy mates, including Jamesie, provided endless fodder for sharp-edged humor.

What set the show apart was its unflinching portrayal of working-class life, balancing gut-busting jokes with moments of poignant social commentary. Rab's rants about poverty, addiction, and the struggles of the underprivileged resonated deeply with audiences, making the character a beloved anti-hero. The show’s biting satire and bold storytelling earned it a loyal following that persists to this day.

The Reunion That Broke the Internet

In the caption of his viral reunion photo, Fisher wrote, “Back together with my old mucker — still causing trouble after all these years.” The internet exploded with comments from fans pleading for a revival. “I’d give anything for just one more episode!” wrote one commenter, while another chimed in, “Bring back Rab and Jamesie for a Christmas special!”

The buzz quickly caught the attention of BBC Scotland, which reportedly reached out to both actors to discuss the possibility of revisiting the characters in some form. While nothing official has been announced, insiders suggest that conversations are underway, and the network is keenly aware of the audience demand for more Rab C. Nesbitt.

Why the Show Still Matters

In an era where TV comedies often tread lightly around social issues, Rab C. Nesbitt feels more relevant than ever. The show’s fearless approach to difficult topics — unemployment, mental health, dysfunctional families — was years ahead of its time. And while the landscape of Glasgow may have changed since the 90s, many of the systemic issues Rab raged against remain.

The potential for a modern-day reboot is tantalizing. How would Rab navigate social media and viral fame? What would he make of contemporary politics? And would Jamesie still be the same skirt-chasing rogue, or might he have mellowed with age? The comedic possibilities are endless, and fans are eager to see what kind of trouble the duo could stir up in today’s world.

The Cast’s Enduring Bond

Beyond the show itself, the reunion highlighted the real-life friendship between Fisher and Roper, whose off-screen camaraderie was always a vital part of their on-screen magic. In interviews, both actors have spoken fondly of their time on the show and the bond they formed while bringing Rab and Jamesie to life.

“Tony and I always had this unspoken rhythm,” Fisher once said. “We could riff off each other for hours — the writers would sometimes just let us go because we were cracking each other up so much.” That natural chemistry is a rare gift, and it's a big part of what made Rab C. Nesbitt such a standout series.

Looking to the Future

Whether or not a revival materializes, the reunion has already reignited interest in the show. Streaming platforms have reported a spike in views of Rab C. Nesbitt episodes, and DVD box sets are flying off the shelves. Fans are revisiting their favorite moments, from Rab’s hilarious run-ins with authority figures to Jamesie’s disastrous attempts at romance.

And who knows? With enough fan enthusiasm and the willingness of Fisher and Roper to don their iconic costumes once again, there’s every chance we could see a proper comeback. Even if it’s just a one-off special, it would be enough to remind everyone why Rab C. Nesbitt remains one of the most beloved comedies in British TV history.

For now, though, fans can take comfort in knowing that Rab and Jamesie are still out there, laughing together — two old friends who never stopped finding humor in life’s messiest moments. And really, that’s what made the show so special in the first place: the reminder that even in the darkest times, there’s always room for a good laugh and a pint with your best mate.

So here’s to Rab and Jamesie. Long may they reign as the kings of Govan string vests, headbands, and all.