ITV1 axes 'Rebus', extends 'Taggart'

ITV1 has axed Rebus but ordered another ten episodes of Taggart.

Rebus has run since 2000 starring John Hannah, then more recently Ken Stott, as the title character. Stott has now dropped out and ITV confirmed no more episodes were planned.

However, SMG Productions, which made the show, today said it had been given a new order for Taggart which will take it to more than 100 episodes.

SMG managing director Elizabeth Partyka said the deal was "testament to the hugely talented production team working on the series in Scotland" and noted it is coming up to 25 years since the show began.

"We are thrilled to be producing Taggart's 100th episode in its Silver Jubilee year," she said. "It's a big year for a very big drama!"

ITV drama director Laura Mackie added: "Taggart is one of the most enduring brands on British television and we are delighted that viewers will be able to enjoy these new episodes on ITV1."