The second season of Rivals, based on Jilly Cooper’s Rutshire Chronicles, delivers a dazzling mix of sex, politics, and corporate power struggles set in the vibrant 1980s.

A Return to Rutshire in 1987

Premiering in a hyper-chromatic 1987, the series picks up where it left off, diving into the cutthroat world of 1980s television franchises. The central conflict revolves around the rivalry between media mogul Lord Tony Baddingham (David Tennant) of Corinium network and Olympic show jumper-turned-Minister for Sport Rupert Campbell Black (Alex Hassell), leading the Venturer network.

Key Players and Entangled Lives

Alongside Rupert and Tony are star journalist Declan O’Hara (Aidan Turner) and tech mogul Freddie Jones (Danny Dyer). The season begins with a memorable scene featuring the Heavenly Twins, polo-playing brothers, making a nude splash at a lavish party.

The characters’ personal lives are as complex as their professional ones. Declan’s daughter, Taggie (Bella Maclean), finds herself in a love triangle, while Rupert navigates multiple relationships, including one with American super-producer Cameron Cook (Nafessa Williams).

Scandal and Intrigue Abound

Corinium presenter Sarah Stratton (Emily Atack) is pregnant and believes Tony is the father, while Freddie (married to Valerie, played by Lisa McGrillis) develops feelings for romantic novelist Lizzie Vereker (Katherine Parkinson). James (Oliver Chris), Lizzie’s husband, is also entangled with Sarah, and tabloid queen Beattie Johnson (Annabel Scholey) continues her scandalous activities.

The Excess of the Era

The series perfectly captures the extravagance of the 1980s, from the fashion and music to the interior design. Even Margaret Thatcher makes a cameo through a visual reference to her iconic hairstyle.

Tennant on the Season

David Tennant describes the season as “mid-80s in every possible sense,” with Chris de Burgh even making a live appearance. Rupert Campbell Black is described as being “in trouble” as his past actions come to light as he approaches his 40th birthday.

Rivals Season 2 promises a rollercoaster of drama, debauchery, and double entendres, staying true to Jilly Cooper’s signature style.