Disney+’s hit series Rivals is reportedly set to include a cameo by Irish-British singer Chris de Burgh in its upcoming second season. According to The Sun, the 1980s star will appear performing his iconic ballad “The Lady in Red”.
The raunchy drama, adapted from Jilly Cooper’s novel, was a commercial and critical success in 2024. The second season, due later this year, stars Alex Hassell, Aidan Turner, Bella Maclean, David Tennant, Danny Dyer and Emily Atack.
A show insider told The Sun: “The producers wanted a romantic number that would perfectly encapsulate the late Eighties, so what better choice than ‘Lady in Red’. And when it came time to have someone perform it, why not get the man himself to do the honours.”
“The Lady in Red” was a huge hit in 1986, topping charts in several countries, though it has since been branded one of the most “annoying” songs ever written. Last year, de Burgh said he “laughed his head off” at appearing in polls for both most hated and favourite songs.
The song was previously used to soundtrack a dance between characters Taggie (Maclean) and Rupert Campbell-Black (Hassell). The Independent has contacted Disney+ and de Burgh’s representative for comment.
Cooper, who died in October aged 88, was honoured by the cast. Hassell said: “This magical woman changed my life… She was so kind and supportive to me in portraying her hero Rupert.” Atack added: “To be taken into your world was the hugest honour and a once in a lifetime privilege.”
