As the temperature plummets in the picturesque Cotswolds, the cast and crew of *Rivals* are braving the elements to bring the much-anticipated second season of this Jilly Cooper adaptation to life. With its first season having clinched an International Emmy Award for Best Drama, expectations are soaring. The latest instalment promises to be “bigger, bolder, and bonkier,” as the familiar characters navigate a world rife with scandal and intrigue.
A Chilly Night on Set
On this frosty November evening, actor Danny Dyer, known for his role as Freddie Jones, shares a glimpse into the behind-the-scenes challenges. “You’ve got to put those heat pads in your trotters,” he remarks, gesturing at his bundled-up feet. “I’ve got two double ones for my toes, and Long Johns, obviously.” As the crew prepares to film a bonfire scene at Chavenage House, a historic Elizabethan manor, the warmth of camaraderie contrasts sharply with the biting cold.
Dyer’s character, a self-assured yet endearing figure, has unexpectedly found favour with audiences, becoming a sex symbol despite his flamboyant moustache and a rather questionable wardrobe choice. “There’s not a lot of kind people in this show,” he reflects. “He’s powerful, speaks loads of languages, and is rich, but he’s still very much working class. He tries to do the right thing, and I think that’s what’s attractive.”
A Star-Studded Cast Expands the Narrative
In this season, David Tennant reprises his role as the morally ambiguous Lord Tony Baddingham, who promises to elevate his mischief-making to new heights. “I thought I was quite badly behaved in series one, but I do terrible things in series two,” he reveals, alluding to a scene involving dubious antics in the bushes. Tennant’s excitement about exploring the depths of his character is palpable, and his playful candour underscores the show’s blend of drama and dark humour.
Aidan Turner, who plays Declan O’Hara, also finds himself at the heart of the drama. He quips about the peculiarities of filming in a location that once served as the backdrop for his previous hit, *Poldark*. “They’ve dressed it so differently I don’t recognise it,” he laughs, although he did insist on removing a “Poldark shrine” from the women’s toilets, citing it as “a bit creepy.”
Expanding Horizons: More Episodes, More Drama
The second season will feature twelve episodes, a significant increase from the initial eight, allowing for a richer exploration of character arcs and plotlines. Bella Maclean, who portrays Taggie, the innocent love interest of Rupert Campbell-Black, expresses her enthusiasm about the heightened stakes of the new series. “It feels more luxurious and larger, but also more heartfelt,” she muses. “It just feels more *Rivals*, if that’s possible.”
The chemistry between characters has also struck a chord with younger audiences, particularly on platforms like TikTok, where clips of Taggie and Rupert’s romance have gone viral. Alex Hassell, who plays Rupert, notes the unexpected popularity of their relationship among Gen Z viewers, highlighting how modern sensibilities can reshape perceptions of classic narratives.
Remembering Jilly Cooper
As the cast dives into filming, one absence looms large: the late Jilly Cooper. The beloved author, who passed away earlier this year, was instrumental in shaping the *Rivals* universe. Lisa McGrillis, who plays Freddie’s wife Valerie, fondly recalls a recent gathering at Cooper’s home, where the author was overflowing with enthusiasm for the new season. “She was still so full of life and mischief,” McGrillis reflects, a touch of melancholy lacing her words. “She was excited about the second series and engaged with every episode.”
The legacy of Cooper’s work continues to resonate, and the show aims to honour her spirit while adapting her stories for a contemporary audience.
Why it Matters
The return of *Rivals* not only marks a significant chapter in British television but also reflects evolving cultural narratives. As the series grapples with themes of power, morality, and romance, it invites viewers to engage with complex characters in a world that mirrors both contemporary dilemmas and timeless human desires. With its blend of humour and drama, *Rivals* stands poised to capture the imagination of a new generation, ensuring that Jilly Cooper’s legacy endures well beyond the pages of her beloved novels. The anticipation builds as the series prepares to launch on Disney+ on 15 May, heralding a season of escapism and indulgence that viewers have been eagerly awaiting.