Scottish actor Iain Robertson, known for his roles in River City, Rab C Nesbitt, and Grange Hill, is facing serious criminal allegations involving four women. The 44-year-old has been accused of rape, physical assault, and coercive control spanning from January 2004 to April 2020. He now faces eight charges, all of which he denies.
Robertson was excused from appearing at a pre-trial hearing at the High Court in Glasgow on Tuesday, July 9. A trial date has been set for June 2026, with proceedings expected to last six days. He is currently out on bail.
Multiple Allegations Including Rape and Coercive Control
One of the most severe charges includes the repeated rape of a woman between 2018 and 2019. Prosecutors allege that Robertson engaged in a pattern of coercive and controlling behaviour during that time. This reportedly included psychological manipulation, intimidation, and physical aggression.
According to the indictment, he is said to have grabbed the woman by the neck, kicked household items, and bombarded her with calls and messages. He also allegedly sent her unwanted gifts and pressured her not to contact the police.
The nature of these allegations falls under Scotland’s updated domestic abuse laws, which classify coercive and controlling behaviour as criminal offences, even if physical violence is not always present.
In court, his lawyer Gary Allan KC submitted a special defence of consent for one of the rape charges. “A joint minute of agreed evidence has been settled between parties,” he told the judge. “Mr Robertson pleads not guilty.”
Further Assault Charges Involving Other Women
In addition to the rape allegation, Robertson faces multiple other charges involving three more women. These include physical assault, threatening behaviour, and emotional abuse.
Prosecutors say that in one case, he poured wine over a woman, shouted and swore at her, and made highly offensive remarks. In another incident, he allegedly lunged at a woman, causing her to fall, and then dragged her by the hair. He also reportedly tried to control her social life and isolate her from friends and family.
These accusations span over a three-year period, according to the indictment. Robertson is also accused of sending unwanted gifts to a woman’s workplace, continuing to contact her despite her objections.
In the fourth case, prosecutors claim Robertson behaved aggressively, made sexually inappropriate comments, and physically pushed the woman. These allegations further add to a growing pattern of alleged abusive conduct.
High-Profile Career Now Under Scrutiny
Iain Robertson has enjoyed a long acting career in both film and television. He gained early recognition for his performance in the 1996 Scottish cult film Small Faces, and later appeared in popular British TV series including Grange Hill, Rab C Nesbitt, and Sea of Souls.
Since 2017, Robertson has been a central figure in the BBC Scotland soap River City, playing Stevie O’Hara. His work on the show had earned praise for its realism and emotional depth.
These allegations now cast a dark shadow over his public image and career. The BBC has not yet issued a formal statement on Robertson’s future with River City or whether he will continue filming ahead of the 2026 trial.
While Robertson has maintained his innocence, the seriousness of the charges has drawn public attention. His bail conditions and any restrictions on his professional activities have not been disclosed.
Support Available for Victims of Sexual Crimes
As this high-profile case unfolds, authorities and health officials are reminding the public that support is available for victims of rape, assault, and domestic abuse.
In the West Midlands and across the UK, police departments have specially trained officers who handle these cases with care and confidentiality. Victims can report abuse online or by calling the non-emergency number 101. In urgent cases, they should call 999 immediately.
The NHS Choices website also lists support services and counselling options for survivors. Whether it’s a recent incident or one from years ago, help is available.
Campaigners emphasize that no one should feel alone or unheard. The growing recognition of coercive control in the legal system reflects a broader push to protect victims and hold abusers accountable.
Follow us on Instagram, YouTube, Facebook, X and TikTok for latest updates