Disney+ has unveiled the first tantalising glimpse of the highly anticipated second season of its BAFTA-winning drama, Rivals, confirming its return to screens in 2026. The hit series, set in the glamorous and ruthless world of 1980s British television, is currently filming in the picturesque Cotswolds.
Star-Studded Cast Returns with a Bang
The newly released images confirm the return of the show's beloved, ambitious characters. David Tennant is back as the formidable media mogul Lord Tony Baddingham, seen stepping off a helicopter looking decidedly alive and well. Alex Hassell returns as the charismatic Rupert Campbell-Black, while Aidan Turner reprises his role as producer Declan O'Hara. They are joined by Nafessa Williams as Cameron Cook and Bella Maclean as Taggie O'Hara.
Insiders promise the new season will deliver "even more wit, desire, and jaw-dropping twists" than the first. A source close to the production revealed: "Power struggles intensify, rivalries deepen and ambition pushes loyalties to the brink." The photos hint at renewed romantic tension, with Taggie and Rupert appearing intimately close, while Declan is pictured looking pensive and burdened.
Dedication to a Literary Legend
The series' triumphant return comes just weeks after the passing of its creator, the iconic novelist Jilly Cooper, who died in October 2025 at the age of 88. Cooper served as an executive producer on the first season. The show's recent win for Drama Series at the International Emmy Awards in November was dedicated to her memory.
Fellow executive producer Dominic Treadwell-Collins paid a colourful tribute, suggesting Cooper would be celebrating the win surrounded by "dogs and half-naked, oiled-up men" and calling the Emmy victory "orgasmic."
What to Expect in the New Season
Season one concluded on a major cliffhanger with Tony's fate uncertain, as he vowed to protect his Corinium empire at all costs. The new images suggest his story is far from over. The series continues to explore the high-stakes collision of personal and professional lives, where careers, marriages, and reputations perpetually hang in the balance and secrets are swiftly exposed.
The production will once again utilise the stunning Cotswolds countryside as a backdrop, contrasting natural beauty with the artificial glitter of the television industry. The new season will also welcome several exciting new faces to the ensemble cast.
Rivals Season 2 is scheduled to premiere in 2026 on Disney+ in the UK and internationally, and on Hulu in the United States. Every episode of the acclaimed first season is available to stream in full on Disney+ now.
