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Cast of The Outlaws: Meet the Talented Performers Driving the BBC Hit Series

The Outlaws, created by Stephen Merchant and Elgin James, is a standout BBC comedy-drama that fuses humor, crime, and emotional depth. Set in Bristol, the show brings together a mismatched group of strangers completing community service. The driving force behind its success is its dynamic, diverse, and brilliantly cast ensemble. At BritainWrites, we've explored each cast member in detail to help fans and new viewers alike understand why this ensemble works so well. From Hollywood icons to rising UK stars, this breakdown showcases what each actor brings to the table. Christopher Walken as Frank Sheldon Among the Cast of The Outlaws, Christopher Walken is the most internationally recognized name. He plays Frank Sheldon, a retired con artist attempting to repair his relationship with his daughter while serving community service. Walken's iconic delivery adds depth to a role that mixes criminal charm with emotional vulnerability. Known for: The Deer Hunter, Catch Me If You Can Character type: World-weary, cunning, regretful Unique fact: Walken's first lead in a British series Walken's portrayal adds global star power and a grounded, heartfelt presence to the show. Known for: The Deer Hunter, Catch Me If You Can, Pulp Fiction Role: A sly but soft-hearted former criminal Fun fact: This was Walken's first major role in a British TV series Walken's portrayal of Frank adds unexpected tenderness to the character, making him both comedic and touching. Stephen Merchant not only co-created the series but also stars as Greg Dillard, an awkward and painfully shy solicitor. Greg is sentenced to community service after a public indecency offense, and his personal journey is one of the most relatable in the show. Known for: The Office (UK), Extras, Hello Ladies Role: A lonely lawyer with social anxiety and deep insecurities Creator credit: Merchant also writes and directs multiple episodes Greg's storyline is often both cringe-inducing and deeply moving, and Merchant's self-deprecating performance hits the right balance. Rhianne Barreto plays Rani, a gifted student from a strict immigrant family. After being caught shoplifting, she's sentenced to community service. Her storyline explores rebellion, cultural expectations, and identity crisis. Known for: Hanna, Honour Character traits: Intelligent, impulsive, emotionally conflicted Performance: Barreto brings complexity to Rani's coming-of-age arc As the youngest in the group, Rani adds a generational contrast that enriches the dynamic of the cast. Gamba Cole plays Christian, a protective older brother using a false identity to escape gang affiliations. His calm demeanor hides a life filled with danger, loyalty, and difficult choices. Known for: Guerrilla, Hanna Background: Christian is on the run from a dangerous past Relationship arc: His bond with Rani adds emotional weight to the storyline Cole's understated performance adds credibility and emotional grounding to the show's more dramatic moments. Darren Boyd plays John Halloran, a disgraced businessman caught in a racism scandal. His struggle with public image, family expectations, and personal guilt provides an ongoing moral dilemma within the group. Known for: Spy, Killing Eve, Green Wing Character profile: Conservative, prideful, and forced to confront change Story impact: John's arc mirrors real-world issues of privilege and bias Boyd brings both satire and sincerity to a character audiences love to hate—and sometimes sympathize with. Clare Perkins takes on the role of Myrna, a former radical activist. Now older and haunted by her past, Myrna uses community service as a chance to make amends and rediscover purpose. Known for: EastEnders, Secrets & Lies Role traits: Fiercely intelligent, morally conflicted, idealistic Dramatic depth: Her internal struggle adds gravitas to the ensemble Myrna often challenges other characters' motives, making her a voice of conscience in the group. Eleanor Tomlinson plays Lady Gabby, a socialite and former reality star sentenced after a drunken scandal. Her entitlement and cluelessness offer comic relief but also develop into genuine character growth. Known for: Poldark, The Nevers Character shift: From influencer to introspective outsider Added value: Her arc surprises viewers with unexpected emotional depth Tomlinson's portrayal of privilege evolving into self-awareness is one of the show's most entertaining transformations. Jessica Gunning stars as Diane, the overly intense community service officer. Obsessed with rules and control, Diane provides consistent comedic energy while occasionally revealing her own insecurities. Known for: Pride, Back, White Heat Character tone: Comically strict, socially awkward, and a little delusional Standout scenes: Diane's patrols and interrogations are comedic highlights Gunning balances slapstick and subtle humor to deliver some of the series' funniest moments. Nina Wadia plays Shanthi, Rani's traditional and overbearing mother. She represents the generational and cultural pressures faced by Rani and delivers moments of both frustration and heart. Known for: Goodness Gracious Me, EastEnders Cultural influence: Shanthi brings immigrant family dynamics into sharp focus Narrative weight: Her confrontations with Rani are emotionally charged Wadia's performance adds authenticity and emotional complexity to Rani's backstory. Actor Character Notable Credits Character Summary Christopher Walken Frank Sheldon Pulp Fiction, Catch Me Aging conman seeking redemption Stephen Merchant Greg Dillard The Office, Extras Awkward lawyer hiding deep loneliness Rhianne Barreto Rani Rekowski Hanna, Honour High-achiever turned rebel Gamba Cole Christian Taylor Guerrilla, Hanna Ex-gang member protecting his sister Darren Boyd John Halloran Spy, Killing Eve Disgraced businessman facing backlash Clare Perkins Myrna Okeke EastEnders, Secrets & Lies Former radical with unresolved guilt Eleanor Tomlinson Lady Gabby Penrose Poldark, The Nevers Spoiled influencer seeking identity Jessica Gunning Diane Pemberley Pride, Back Overzealous officer with a quirky side Nina Wadia Shanthi Rekowski EastEnders, Goodness Gracious Me Strict mother with traditional values The success of The Outlaws depends heavily on its diverse and multi-layered cast. With a balance of comedic veterans, dramatic actors, and international stars, the series resonates across different demographics. Each actor brings authenticity to their role, and the ensemble chemistry keeps the plot engaging and believable. Filmed in Bristol, the gritty urban setting adds realism, while the diverse casting reflects contemporary British society. The Outlaws has received widespread acclaim for both performance and writing. The cast, in particular, has been praised for elevating what could have been a typical redemption story. IMDb Rating: 7.7/10 Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score: 92% Praise: Strong performances, believable character arcs, and smart humor Christopher Walken's presence draws global attention, while Stephen Merchant's dry wit and writing give the show a distinctly British flavor. Most original cast members returned for the third season, including: Stephen Merchant as Greg Christopher Walken as Frank Rhianne Barreto as Rani Gamba Cole as Christian Clare Perkins as Myrna Their ongoing character development adds new depth to the show's evolving narrative. Who is the most famous actor in The Outlaws? Christopher Walken is the most internationally recognized member of the cast, with a long and award-winning career in film. Is The Outlaws based on real people? No, the show is fictional. However, the characters are inspired by real-world social dynamics and stereotypes. Where was the series filmed? The series was filmed in Bristol, England, using real locations to enhance authenticity. Will the full cast return for Season 4? There's no official confirmation yet, but the positive reception of Season 3 suggests most of the cast may return. The cast of The Outlaws brings together actors from different genres, generations, and cultural backgrounds to create something uniquely entertaining. From Walken's seasoned charm to Barreto's raw emotion and Gunning's comedic timing, every role feels essential. Their performances turn a simple community service premise into one of the BBC's most exciting and human-centered shows. Whether you're here for the humor, the social commentary, or the performances, the cast of The Outlaws delivers something for everyone. TIME BUSINESS NEWS