The glossy world of Disney+'s hit period drama Rivals has been plunged into scandal, with explosive reports revealing a culture of wild parties and illegal activities unfolding behind the cameras.
Chaos in the Cotswolds
According to insider accounts, the off-screen antics on the set of the 1980s-set series, which boasts a star-studded cast including David Tennant, Danny Dyer, and Emily Atack, have been so extreme they make the show's racy script look tame. The drama is based on the iconic 'bonkbuster' novel by author Jilly Cooper.
Filming for the show's highly anticipated second series, which is already underway, took over the picturesque Cotswolds. The production reportedly commandeered The Hare & Hounds pub in Tetbury, transforming it into a private members' club where boozy, all-night parties became a regular occurrence.
An insider revealed that the hedonism wasn't confined to the pub. They claimed that some members of the 100-strong cast and crew were taking cocaine in their trailers between filming scenes. It is important to note that these allegations do not involve any of the show's main actors.
Parties and Personal Drama
The source described a chaotic atmosphere that mirrored the show's own plotlines. 'After filming wrapped for the day, everything was just as raunchy and chaotic as the show. If anything, it made Jilly’s plot look tame,' they told The Sun. 'There was lots of cocaine-taking in trailers. They’d live it up at all-nighters then go straight to set the next morning.'
The consequences were sometimes stark. The insider recounted one incident where 'one star was still so high, their eyes were totally wild so they had to send them home' from the set.
The personal drama also extended beyond substance use. It was claimed that one actress was so persistently flirtatious with a crew member that he felt compelled to beg her to stop, fearing for his marriage.
Success and a Bittersweet Return
This scandal breaks as the show rides a wave of professional success. Disney+ confirmed earlier this year that Rivals will return for a second series after the first became a huge hit. Fans who binge-watched the initial eight episodes will be treated to an extended run, with the new season comprising 12 episodes.
In a major update for viewers, it has been confirmed that David Tennant will reprise his role as Lord Tony Baddingham, whose character was left for dead on a dramatic cliffhanger. He will be joined by returning stars Alex Hassell as Rupert Campbell-Black and Aidan Turner as Declan O'Hara.
The production of the second series has been marked by a poignant moment. Author Jilly Cooper visited the set just two days before her sudden death at age 88. Cast member Alex Hassell has since expressed the cast's devastation, hoping the new episodes will serve as a fitting tribute to the beloved novelist.
The Daily Mail has contacted Disney for comment regarding the allegations of off-set misconduct.
