Disney+ is pulling out all the stops for the highly anticipated second season of its seductive period drama, Rivals, assembling a veritable who's who of British and international acting talent. The streaming giant has confirmed a breathtaking casting coup that will see fan favourites and critically acclaimed stars bring Jilly Cooper's racy 1980s-set novel to life.
The new recruits to the sprawling ensemble are nothing short of spectacular. Award-winning national treasure David Tennant (Doctor Who, Good Omens) joins the fray, alongside EastEnders legend turned top-tier dramatic actor Danny Dyer. They are complemented by the formidable Alex Hassell (The Boys, The Tragedy of Macbeth), whose star continues to rise exponentially.
A Dynasty of Drama and Desire
Based on the seminal novel from the queen of the 'bonkbuster' herself, Jilly Cooper, Rivals delves into the ruthless world of independent television in the decadent decade of the 1980s. The story orbits around two perpetually feuding media barons, Rupert Campbell-Black and Lord Tony Baddingham, whose professional rivalry and personal vendettas fuel a whirlwind of ambition, betrayal, and illicit passion in the fictional county of Rutshire.
The first series, which introduced the central characters, was met with critical acclaim and viewer fascination, setting a high bar for opulence and scandalous storytelling.
An All-Star Line-Up Returns and Expands
They will be joining the already impeccable returning lead cast, including David Tennant as the odious controller of Corinium Television, Lord Tony Baddingham, and Aidan Turner who embodies the charmingly ruthless former Olympian and publishing magnate, Rupert Campbell-Black. Katherine Parkinson (The IT Crowd) also returns as Rupert's long-suffering wife, Taggie.
This new injection of top-tier talent signals Disney's significant commitment to making Rivals a cornerstone of its UK-produced original content, aiming to capture the global audience's imagination with a blend of high-stakes drama and nostalgic glamour.
Filming for the new series is now underway, promising more power struggles, extravagant parties, and tangled love affairs than ever before. With this formidable cast, the second series of Rivals is poised to be the must-watch television event of the year.
