The $9.3 million thumbs-up

David Tennant's hit series Rivals has achieved a remarkable new high with the latest episode of its second season, earning an outstanding IMDb rating of 9.3 out of 10.

This score surpasses the season 1 finale's 8.5 rating and is a testament to the gripping drama and performances in the show.

With over 300 ratings, audience reception has been overwhelmingly positive , placing the episode among the top-rated of Tennant's television career, alongside iconic Doctor Who episodes like Blink at 9.8 and The Day of the Doctor at 9.3.

An echo of Sydney's 2024 institutional buy-up

Rivals Season 2 Episode 6 marks a major turning point in the story, which is based on Jilly Cooper's Rutshire Chronicles. As a dangerous storm rages outside, Lord Tony Baddingham's biggest secret is exposed, leading to the tragic death of a significant character.

This shocking event diverges from the source material, adding an element of unpredictability to the show's narrative.

The series, set in the 1980s, blends comedy, romance, and drama, and season 2 has expanded its scope with 12 episodes divided into two halves.

What's next for Rivals?

The epissode's cliffhanger has left fans anxiously awaiting the second half, which is expected to premiere in November 2026 on Hulu and Disney+.

The success of the episode underscores Rivals' ability to blend humor with tragedy, and the show's first season received critical acclaim with a 95% Rotten Tomatoes score.

The cast, including Alex Hassell, Katherine Parkinson, and Aidan Turner, bring depth to their roles, and the show's weekly release schedule has allowed each episode to be savored and discussed.

Who is behind the show's success?

David Tennant's versatility as an actor has been a key factor in the show's success, and his ability to lead both dramatic and comedic roles has solidified his status as a versatile actor.

The show's success on Disney+ bodes well for future seasons ,though no official renewal has been announced yet.

Rivals continues to be a standout series on Disney+, appealing to fans of period drama and satire alike.