Disney+'s hit British comedy-drama Rivals returns for a second season, introducing several new faces to the glamorous and cutthroat world of 1980s regional television. The streaming service will release the first three episodes simultaneously on Friday, May 15, 2026, as reported by Somerset Live.
What to Expect in Season 2
Disney+ teases: "In the second season, the battle for the Central South West television franchise reaches fever pitch as the war between Corinium and Venturer enters a dangerous new phase. More ruthless than ever, Tony Baddingham is determined to dismantle his rivals piece-by-piece, weaponising scandal and manipulating those closest to him to maintain his grip on power."
The synopsis continues: "Amidst the hedonistic glamour of 80s excess, the personal lives of our Rutshire heroes spiral into chaos. Marriages fracture under the weight of ambition, illicit affairs threaten to shatter families, and long-buried secrets ignite with explosive consequences. As rivalries push everyone to the brink, loyalties are tested and hearts are broken in the pursuit of victory. But what is the true cost of war?"
New Cast Members
Hayley Atwell as Helen Gordon
The English-American star plays Rupert Campbell-Black's (Alex Hassell) former wife and mother to his two children. Atwell is best known for portraying Peggy Carter in Marvel's Agent Carter and various Marvel films, alongside roles in Mission: Impossible and Netflix's Heartstopper.
Rupert Everett as Malise Gordon
Acclaimed actor Rupert Everett takes on the role of Helen's new husband, who previously served as Campbell-Black's show-jumping coach and mentor. Everett's extensive career includes My Best Friend's Wedding, An Ideal Husband, Napoleon, My Policeman, and The Serpent Queen.
Maxim Ays as Sebbie Carlisle
Emerging talent Maxim Ays brings Sebbie Carlisle to life, having previously appeared in The Larkins, Sanditon, Boarders, Still So Awkward, Doctor Who, Grantchester, and Truth and Treason.
Bobby Lockwood as Dommie Carlisle
Bobby Lockwood joins as Dommie Carlisle, with credits including Wolfblood, Here We Go, Casualty, The Tower, Tell Me Everything, The Emily Atack Show, The Diplomat, Grantchester, Grace, and Dunkirk.
Returning Cast
The second series welcomes back its expansive ensemble: David Tennant as Lord Tony Baddingham, Alex Hassell as Rupert Campbell-Black, Aidan Turner as Declan O'Hara, Victoria Smurfit as Maud O'Hara, Nafessa Williams as Cameron Cook, Katherine Parkinson as Lizzie Vereker, Bella Maclean as Taggie O'Hara, Danny Dyer as Freddie Jones, Claire Rushbrook as Lady Monica Baddingham, Oliver Chris as James Vereker, Lisa McGrillis as Valerie Jones, Emily Atack as Sarah Stratton, Rufus Jones as Paul Stratton, Luca Pasqualino as Basil Baddingham, Catriona Chandler as Caitlin O'Hara, Annabel Scholey as Beattie Johnson, Gary Lamont as Charles Fairburn, Hubert Burton as Gerald Middleton, Gabriel Tierney as Patrick O'Hara, Lara Peake as Daysee Butler, and Bryony Hannah as Dierdre Kilpatrick.
Rivals season 2 launches on Disney+ on May 15, 2026, with weekly episodes on Fridays.
