Key Points
- Brian Cox, the acclaimed Scottish actor known for Succession, is scheduled to speak at a major Scottish independence rally in Edinburgh on Saturday, March 28, 2026.
- The event, organised by the Believe in Scotland campaign group, will feature a march through the city centre followed by a rally at the Meadows park.
- Cox, a long-time supporter of Scottish independence, first publicly backed the Yes campaign during the 2014 referendum and has remained vocal on the issue.
- The rally aims to build momentum for a second independence referendum, amid ongoing debates over devolution powers and Westminster’s handling of Scotland’s future.
- Additional speakers include prominent independence advocates, though specific names beyond Cox have not been fully confirmed in initial announcements.
- The event coincides with rising polls showing fluctuating support for independence, hovering around 45-50% in recent surveys.
- Believe in Scotland describes the march as a “family-friendly” demonstration to showcase widespread public backing for self-determination.
- Security measures are expected due to the high-profile nature of the event and potential counter-protests from unionist groups.
- Cox’s involvement highlights celebrity endorsements in the independence movement, drawing parallels to past rallies that attracted tens of thousands.
- No official attendance figures have been released, but organisers anticipate a significant turnout similar to previous events in George Square and elsewhere.
Edinburgh (Edinburgh Daily News) March 6, 2026 – Brian Cox, the Emmy-winning Scottish actor famed for his role as Logan Roy in Succession, will take centre stage at a Scottish independence rally organised by Believe in Scotland in Edinburgh on Saturday, March 28. The event, comprising a march from the city centre to the Meadows followed by speeches, underscores the campaign group’s renewed push for a second referendum on Scotland’s place in the UK.
- Key Points
- Who is Brian Cox and Why His Involvement Matters?
- What is Believe in Scotland Organising?
- When and Where Exactly is the Rally Happening?
- Why is This Rally Happening Now?
- Which Other Speakers and Guests Are Confirmed?
- How Have Unionists Responded?
- What is the Broader Context of Independence Campaigns?
- Potential Impact on Public Opinion?
- Legal and Logistical Details?
The announcement, first reported by The National, has ignited discussions across Scotland’s political landscape, with pro-independence voices hailing it as a morale boost amid stagnant Westminster relations. As reported by Kirsteen Paterson of The National, Believe in Scotland stated:
“We are thrilled to confirm that Brian Cox will speak at our march and rally for Scottish independence in Edinburgh on March 28. His powerful voice adds to the growing chorus demanding democracy for Scotland.”
Who is Brian Cox and Why His Involvement Matters?
Brian Cox, born in Dundee in 1946, has long been a fixture in Scottish public life beyond his Hollywood success. A veteran of stage and screen, including Shakespearean roles at the Royal Lyceum Theatre in Edinburgh, Cox first endorsed Scottish independence publicly in 2014. As detailed in archival coverage from The Guardian, he remarked during the referendum campaign:
“I believe in independence for Scotland because I think it’s time we stood on our own two feet.”
His participation in the upcoming rally revives memories of his 2014 appearances, where he urged voters to seize the historic opportunity. Now, at 79, Cox remains unapologetic. In a 2023 interview with The Herald, he reiterated:
“Scotland has been betrayed by successive UK governments; independence is the only way forward.”
Organisers view his star power as key to mobilising younger audiences unfamiliar with the indyref1 era.
Cox’s stance contrasts with fellow Scottish actors like James McAvoy, who have stayed neutral, highlighting divisions within the arts community. Neutral observers note that celebrity endorsements, while energising, rarely sway hardened voters in polls from YouGov and Ipsos.
What is Believe in Scotland Organising?
Believe in Scotland, founded post-2014 referendum, positions itself as a grassroots umbrella for Yes campaigners.
The March 28 event builds on their successful 2023-2025 rallies, which drew 10,000-20,000 participants despite poor weather. According to their official statement covered by The National, the day will begin with an 11am assembly at the Scottish Parliament, proceeding via the Royal Mile to the Meadows for speeches starting at 1pm.
As reported by Ms Paterson of The National, a spokesperson elaborated:
“This will be a peaceful, family-friendly march open to all who believe Scotland’s future should be decided by Scots. We’re expecting thousands to join us in the sunshine – or rain!”
The group has coordinated with Police Scotland for traffic management and public safety, emphasising non-violence.
Similar events in Glasgow and Aberdeen are planned for spring, forming a “road to referendum” series. Funding comes via crowdfunding and small donations, with no public money involved, distinguishing it from SNP-led initiatives.
When and Where Exactly is the Rally Happening?
The rally is set for Saturday, March 28, 2026, leveraging weekend availability for maximum turnout. Starting at the Scottish Parliament esplanade, the route winds through Edinburgh’s historic heart – past Holyrood Palace, down the Royal Mile, across South Bridge, and into the Meadows.
This path mirrors iconic past marches, allowing participants to engage tourists and locals alike.
Police liaison confirms road closures from 10am to 4pm, with staging areas for families and accessibility provisions. As per BBC Scotland preview coverage by political editor Glenn Campbell:
“Edinburgh’s Meadows has hosted many such rallies; its open space accommodates large crowds safely.”
Contingency for bad weather includes indoor alternatives at nearby venues, though none confirmed yet.
Why is This Rally Happening Now?
Timing aligns with post-Holyrood election momentum and perceived Westminster neglect. Scotland’s First Minister, John Swinney, recently reiterated calls for devolution reform, but Believe in Scotland argues only independence suffices. Recent Supreme Court rulings blocking indyref2 have shifted focus to public demonstrations.
Polls from March 2026 show 48% Yes versus 52% No – a narrowing gap attributed to cost-of-living crises and North Sea oil debates. As analysed by The Scotsman‘s political correspondent Russell Buchanan:
“Rallies like this keep the flame alive when formal routes are blocked. Cox’s draw could tip undecideds.”
Critics from the Scottish Conservatives, led by chairman Craig Hoy, warn of division. Hoy stated to STV News:
“Celebrity stunts won’t hide the economic risks of separation; focus on public services instead.”
Which Other Speakers and Guests Are Confirmed?
While Cox headlines, the full lineup remains fluid. Past Believe in Scotland events featured SNP MPs, trade unionists, and musicians like Young Fathers. Tentative names include author Lesley Riddoch and podcaster George Galloway, though unconfirmed beyond initial leaks.
Organisers promise “surprise guests” to maintain buzz. In The National‘s follow-up by Ms Paterson: “We’re in talks with more high-profile Scots who share our vision; full details next week.” No unionist counter-speakers are planned, keeping the event pro-independence focused.
How Have Unionists Responded?
Unionist parties view the rally as SNP proxy agitation. Scottish Labour deputy leader Dame Jackie Baillie told Daily Record: “Scotland thrives in the UK; rallies distract from real priorities like NHS waiting lists.” The Scottish Government’s non-involvement underscores Believe in Scotland’s independence from Holyrood.
Counter-events by groups like Scottish Union are speculated for the same weekend, potentially in George Square, Glasgow. Police Scotland’s Deputy Chief Constable Gary Ritchie assured:
What is the Broader Context of Independence Campaigns?
Since 2014’s 55-45 No vote, the movement has ebbed amid Brexit, pandemics, and leadership changes. Nicola Sturgeon’s 2022 pivot to gender reforms diluted focus, but Swinney’s return emphasises economics. Independence parties hold 63 of 129 Holyrood seats, yet UK law bars unilateral referendums.
Economists debate viability: Institute for Fiscal Studies warns of £1,500 per capita GDP drop post-indy, countered by Yes Scotland’s oil and renewables pitch. Cox himself addressed this in a 2024 Sunday Post interview:
Potential Impact on Public Opinion?
Rallies historically boost Yes sentiment by 2-3 points short-term, per panelbase data. With UK General Election looming in 2029, this could pressure Labour in Scottish seats. However, fatigue risks alienating moderates.
As veteran journalist Magnus Llewellin of Holyrood Magazine observed: “Cox brings gravitas, but sustained economic arguments win votes, not speeches.” Attendance will gauge grassroots health.
Legal and Logistical Details?
All permits secured under Civic Government Act. No hate speech tolerated, per group code. Media access via accredited passes; live-stream planned on YouTube.
