Full Breakdown
Iain Robertson Convicted of Rape and Assault in Glasgow High Court
6/24/2026, 12:01:00 AM
Conviction Summary
Former BBC soap actor Iain Robertson, 45, who played Stevie O'Hara, was convicted by a Glasgow High Court jury of five offences between 2004 and 2019: rape, a separate sexual assault, two assaults and domestic abuse. The rape occurred once in 2018-2019. Sentencing is deferred to 23 July 2024 in Edinburgh; he remains remanded and is on the sex-offenders register.
Timeline of Offences and Trial
Offences span 2004-2019, including a 2007 forced encounter in the Lake District and a 2014 assault on a fellow actress. Robertson first appeared in court in February 2024; the High Court trial concluded in June 2024, with sentencing set for July 2024.
Victim Accounts
A 36-year-old co-star said Robertson assured her that nothing would happen before forcing intercourse while she was very limp. A 48-year-old described a 2007 Lake District incident where he forced himself on her and poured wine over her coursework. A 40-year-old actress recounted a 2014 assault involving obsessive calls, threats and sending snack boxes to her theatre.
Data & Statistics
The jury returned five convictions: rape (1), sexual assault (1), assault (2) and domestic abuse (1). Three women were found guilty of assault; a fourth was acquitted of abusive behaviour. Robertson also has a prior minor assault conviction and road-traffic offences.
Official Statements & Responses
Judge Lady Drummond denied bail, noting Robertson’s changed circumstances after conviction. Prosecutor John Keenan said the victims’ testimonies were strong and overwhelming and described Robertson’s evidence as wholly incredible and unreliable. A BBC spokesperson said the corporation was appalled by these crimes. Defence counsel Gary Allan said Robertson had been frozen out by the acting profession.
Criticism & Opposition
Witnesses described Robertson as “violent” and “controlling”. The prosecution noted a “common theme” of controlling, humiliating and demeaning behaviour across the accounts. Critics cite the case as evidence of systemic failures to protect women in the Scottish entertainment sector.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
The jury did not deliver a verdict on the 2007 Lake District allegation, leaving that charge unresolved. Robertson was acquitted of abusive behaviour involving a fourth woman, creating a partial gap in the pattern of alleged conduct.
Verbatim Quotes
- “nothing would happen” — Iain Robertson (as reported by the victim)
- “I was lying down, I was very limp and he went on top of me.” — Victim, 36 years old
- “no angel” — Iain Robertson (court testimony)
- “wholly incredible and unreliable.” — Advocate depute John Keenan (on Robertson’s testimony)
- “strong and overwhelming.” — Prosecutor John Keenan (on victims’ accounts)
What’s Next
Robertson will be sentenced on 23 July 2024 in Edinburgh, where the judge will consider pre-sentencing reports. The case may spur tighter safeguarding measures in Scottish television productions and influence future legal handling of domestic and sexual abuse allegations.
