As ITV’s daytime hit Judge Rinder continues to soar in popularity, JLife’s Sarah Nelson chats to the man behind the rulings, Robert Rinder, following his appearance at The Nicky Alliance Centre’s ShowBiz Lawyers event.
Laying down the law while simultaneously entertaining legions of fans country-wide – just a regular day for Robert Rinder, star of the self-titled ITV show, Judge Rinder.
The show – in which real-life disputes are settled within a courtroom – has become a daytime revelation, and as a practicing barrister, Robert is no stranger to the setting. Throughout his years in the fast-paced profession, he has been involved in a number of high profile, international cases.
However, it was his other career turn as a TV format writer which inadvertently led to his role as the UK’s favourite law enforcer.
“I didn’t apply for the programme. I enjoy writing script ideas and pitched a format for a separate show to ITV’s head of daytime TV, Helen Warner.”
And it was through this correspondence that the alternative concept for a judge-led show was born, and Robert was asked to front it.
Despite all the trappings that TV stardom brings, Robert hasn’t compromised his legal career roots. He regularly garners laughs and praise for his wryness and wit – but he insists that the humour is never planned in advance.
“Entertaining has never been my concern. From the beginning it was very important to me that the show was authentic and reflected the legal system. The filming of each case can last for an hour or so, and if I do say anything considered funny, it’s completely accidental.”
Acknowledging the slew of support Judge Rinder has drawn, there’s one key benefit that stands out for Robert.
“The reaction from viewers has been great. The popularity of the show has led to discussions across social media and people are feeling encouraged to engage in issues relating to the law.”
As for how his own transition into the legal world came about, Robert claims that it “crept up on me.”
“While completing a degree in History, I enjoyed success with debating and really enjoyed it. Then, after jumping through all the hoops, it seemed like a good fit.”
Providing the location for the show’s busy filming schedule is Manchester; a city that Robert knows only too well, having embarked on an educational journey at Manchester University.
“I lived there very much before the rebuild that has taken place. The city has been reenergised and it’s great spending time in it.”
As for his involvement within the community itself, Robert’s Jewish identity remains firmly felt.
“It’s an extremely powerful force in my life, and my grandfather was a Holocaust survivor. The ethics and lifestyle associated with the Jewish culture are very important to me.”
With his on-screen status going from strength to strength – Robert is set for further success soon in the form of a prime time format – he still, rather impressively, finds the time to lend his skills to other crafts. As well as within the legal field – “I like to still keep my hands in a number of cases” – he has also recently released his own book, ‘Rinder’s Rules: Make the Law Work for You!’
“It helps people deal with everyday legal issues – things that affect everyone.”
Considering his long-term presence on the show, Robert is quick to dissolve any speculation than an exit is on the horizon.
“It’s so rare to be in a job that brings you authentic joy. I love the show.”
