Rake

In the gripping series "Rake," we are introduced to the complex character of Cleaver Greene, portrayed masterfully by Richard Roxburgh. Cleaver is a barrister whose life is anything but predictable, as he navigates the murky waters of the legal realm. Unlike traditional legal dramas that focus on politics, morality, or idealistic visions of justice, Cleaver's story is grounded in the raw and often chaotic essence of the law itself. His passion for the legal system is palpable, driving him to take on cases that often seem hopeless and to defend those who may be unfairly judged by society.

His formidable intelligence and deep-seated understanding of human nature set him apart from others in his field. Cleaver possesses an encyclopaedic knowledge of the law that allows him to maneuver through complex legal codes with apparent ease. He uses this intellect not just to win cases, but also to unveil the flaws and biases entrenched within the justice system. Each episode challenges the viewer to reconsider their notions of right and wrong as Cleaver takes on clients who are often marginalized, offering them a form of advocacy that they might never receive otherwise.

Moreover, Cleaver’s journey is not just about legal battles; it’s also a deep dive into his personal struggles and relationships. His interactions with clients, friends, and foes reveal layers of vulnerability, wit, and raw human emotion that make him a compelling protagonist. Matt Day’s character, David Potter, plays a significant role in this landscape, often highlighting the contrasting perspectives within the legal arena. Together, they illuminate the multifaceted nature of the law and its profound impact on everyday lives, while keeping viewers engaged with a blend of drama, humor, and acute social commentary.

Main Cast of Rake

Richard Roxburgh delivers a tour-de-force performance as Cleaver Greene in the Australian television series "Rake," brilliantly capturing the essence of a deeply flawed yet strangely endearing character. Greene is a brilliant but roguish criminal defense barrister with a penchant for self-destruction, and Roxburgh brings him to life with a charismatic blend of sharp wit, moral ambiguity, and raw vulnerability. His portrayal is both darkly comedic and poignantly tragic, as he navigates through a minefield of personal and professional chaos with a sardonic smile and a quick tongue. Roxburgh's Greene is a man who seems to revel in the chaos of his life, often skating on the thinnest of ice with the law, his clients, and his personal relationships. Yet, it is the actor's ability to humanize Greene's follies and convey his underlying decency and complexity that resonates with audiences, making Cleaver Greene an antihero for the ages and earning Roxburgh critical acclaim for his nuanced performance.

Matt Day's portrayal of David Potter in the Australian television series "Rake" is a standout performance that brings a complex and nuanced character to life. As the conservative Attorney General and later Premier, Day infuses Potter with a delicate balance of political ambition and personal vulnerability. His performance is marked by a sharp intellect and a keen sense of the political landscape, which he navigates with a mix of calculated strategy and occasional moral compromise. Day's Potter is both antagonist and foil to the show's flawed protagonist, Cleaver Greene, played by Richard Roxburgh. The chemistry between the two actors is electric, with Day's Potter often serving as the straight man to Greene's eccentricities, yet he manages to convey an undercurrent of respect and perhaps even a reluctant friendship beneath the political rivalry. Day's ability to humanize a character that could easily be reduced to a political caricature is a testament to his skill as an actor, making Potter one of the most intriguing and multifaceted characters in the series. His performance is a highlight of "Rake," adding depth and complexity to the show's exploration of politics, law, and personal morality.

Adrienne Pickering delivered a compelling performance as Melissa Partridge in the Australian television series "Rake," where she brought depth and complexity to the character of a stoic and resilient legal associate. As the beleaguered girlfriend and eventual wife of the show's flawed protagonist, Cleaver Greene (played by Richard Roxburgh), Pickering's portrayal of Melissa navigated the tumultuous waters of a problematic relationship with a brilliant but deeply troubled barrister. Her performance was a masterclass in subtlety, as she balanced Melissa's fierce loyalty and intelligence with her character's own vulnerabilities and moral compass. Pickering's on-screen chemistry with Roxburgh was electric, and her nuanced portrayal of a woman torn between her love for a man and her need for stability and respect made Melissa a relatable and pivotal character in the series. Her work on "Rake" showcased her range as an actress, earning her acclaim for a portrayal that was both grounded and emotionally resonant.

Russell Dykstra delivered a memorable performance as Barney Meagher in the Australian television series "Rake," bringing a unique blend of charisma and depth to the character. As the loyal, long-suffering, and frequently exasperated offsider to the show's brilliant but self-destructive protagonist, Cleaver Greene (played by Richard Roxburgh), Dykstra's portrayal of Barney is both humorous and heartfelt. His ability to convey a sense of unwavering loyalty despite the perpetual chaos surrounding Cleaver is a testament to his acting prowess. Dykstra's Barney is the emotional anchor of the series, often providing the voice of reason and a moral compass, all while grappling with his own personal and professional challenges. His performance is marked by an understated intensity and a nuanced understanding of the character's inner conflict, making Barney a relatable and indispensable part of the "Rake" ensemble. Dykstra's scenes are consistently engaging, and his chemistry with Roxburgh is palpable, contributing significantly to the show's critical acclaim and enduring appeal.

Caroline Brazier's portrayal of Wendy Greene in the Australian television series "Rake" is a standout performance that brings depth and complexity to the character. As the beleaguered ex-wife of the show's central character, Cleaver Greene, played by Richard Roxburgh, Brazier delivers a nuanced portrayal of a woman caught in the chaos of her former husband's life. Wendy is a psychologist whose professional demeanor often contrasts sharply with the disarray that surrounds Cleaver. Brazier skillfully balances Wendy's role as a voice of reason and emotional anchor for their children with moments of vulnerability, revealing the lingering affection and frustration that come with her history with Cleaver. Her performance is characterized by a compelling blend of strength, warmth, and an undercurrent of weariness, as she navigates the complexities of co-parenting with a man who is as brilliant as he is self-destructive. Brazier's chemistry with Roxburgh is palpable, and their scenes together are often laden with a poignant mix of familiarity, tension, and unresolved feelings, making Wendy Greene a pivotal and empathetically drawn character in the "Rake" narrative.

Danielle Cormack delivered a compelling and multifaceted performance as Scarlet Meagher in the Australian television series "Rake." As the sharp-tongued, fiercely independent, and resilient barista and single mother, Cormack brought a captivating blend of warmth, vulnerability, and tenacity to the role. Scarlet's character was a central figure in the series, often serving as a moral compass and the voice of reason amidst the chaos that surrounded the show's protagonist, Cleaver Greene, played by Richard Roxburgh. Cormack's portrayal was nuanced, showcasing Scarlet's strength in the face of adversity and her unwavering commitment to her son. Her chemistry with Roxburgh was electric, providing the series with some of its most poignant and emotionally charged moments. Danielle Cormack's performance was not only a highlight of "Rake" but also a testament to her range as an actress, earning her critical acclaim and a dedicated fan base.

Secondary Cast of Rake

Michael Bremer

Defamation Judge

Jahne Coutts-Smith

Mariah

David Downer

Tom McManus

David Hynes

Det. Harry Love

Elizabeth Maywald

Caroline Wooldridge

Peter McCallum

QC

Dafna Kronental

Reporter 2

Robert Noble

Milo Markley

Crew of Rake