In a chilly November evening in the picturesque Cotswolds, the cast of Rivals is gearing up for another thrilling chapter of the beloved series. With an Emmy Award under its belt for best drama, the adaptation of Jilly Cooper’s racy bonkbuster is set to return with a bang. Danny Dyer, one of the show’s leading stars, is braving the elements and reflecting on his character’s unexpected rise to heartthrob status, while the rest of the cast hints at even more outrageous antics to come.
A Chilly Welcome on Set
Invited to the set at Chavenage House in Gloucestershire, the atmosphere crackles with anticipation as the crew prepares for a bonfire scene. The Elizabethan manor, known for its historical significance and dramatic architecture, serves as the perfect backdrop for the series’ high-stakes escapades. Dyer, embracing his role as Freddie Jones, is well aware of the challenges of filming in the biting cold: “You’ve got to put those heat pads in your trotters,” he quips, showcasing his seasoned approach to long nights on set.
Aidan Turner, famed for his role in Poldark, brings his character, the suave TV presenter Declan O’Hara, back to these familiar grounds. “I don’t think anyone knew until my first day shooting here,” he recalls. “They wondered if they’d made a mistake, but it’s dressed so differently I hardly recognise it.” The humour is palpable, particularly when he mentions the “Poldark shrine” that had to be removed from the women’s toilets—an amusing anecdote that reminds us of the show’s cheeky charm.
A Descent into Dubious Morality
Rivals is not just about lavish sets and glamorous costumes; it’s also a narrative playground for moral ambiguity. David Tennant, who portrays the morally questionable Lord Tony Baddingham, is relishing the darker turns his character takes this season. “I thought I was quite badly behaved in series one, but I do terrible things in series two,” he confesses with a mischievous gleam. His excitement is infectious as he hints at a scene involving some clandestine activity in the bushes, underscoring the show’s penchant for scandal and intrigue.
Danny Dyer adds a comedic twist to the proceedings by reflecting on his character’s unexpected appeal as a sex symbol, despite sporting a rather unflattering moustache. “There’s not a lot of kind people in this show. He’s powerful and rich, but at his core, he’s still working class. I think that’s what people find attractive,” he muses, before lamenting the prolonged moustache that has become a part of his identity on set.
A Season of Scale and Heart
As Rivals gears up for its second season, cast members are buzzing about the expanded scope of the show. Victoria Smurfit, who plays the fiery Maud O’Hara, notes the noticeable increase in ambition: “There are more set pieces like tonight. It’s bigger, bolder… and bonkier!” she exclaims, her enthusiasm palpable as the cast prepares for the evening’s festivities.
With the number of episodes rising from eight to twelve, there’s a tangible sense of grandeur in the air. Bella Maclean, portraying Taggie, marvels at the enhanced production values, saying, “It feels more luxurious, more heartfelt. It just feels more Rivals, if that’s possible.” Her excitement is echoed by Alex Hassell, whose character Rupert Campbell-Black has captured the attention of younger audiences, particularly on platforms like TikTok.
Navigating Modern Sensibilities
However, the production team has not ignored the shifting cultural landscape. There was considerable debate regarding the portrayal of relationships, especially a contentious scene where Rupert gropes Taggie early in their acquaintance. Hassell acknowledges the delicate balance the writers navigated: “We were interested in what young people would make of that,” he explains. The resulting dialogue and memes surrounding their relationship illustrate the evolving nature of romantic narratives in contemporary media.
The absence of Jilly Cooper, who passed away earlier this year, casts a poignant shadow over the production. Cast member Lisa McGrillis recalls a recent gathering where Cooper was vibrant and engaged, excitedly discussing the new season. “She was completely across it. She read every single episode, signed it all off,” McGrillis reminisces, underscoring the legacy left behind by the beloved author.
Why it Matters
The return of Rivals is more than just another television series; it encapsulates a cultural moment where nostalgia meets modernity. As the show digs into moral complexities and societal changes, it offers a platform for conversations about relationships and ethics in today’s world. With its audacious storytelling and rich character development, Rivals not only entertains but also invites its audience to reflect on the ever-evolving dynamics of love, power, and ambition. As it prepares to launch on Disney+ on 15 May, fans are ready to embrace the chaos and charm that only Jilly Cooper’s universe can provide.
