RIVALS: CASTING ANNOUNCED FOR EXTENDED SECOND SERIES OF DISNEY+ DRAMA

Disney+ confirmed filming will commence this month on the highly-anticipated, award-winning second season of “Rivals”, based on the best-selling novel by Dame Jilly Cooper. 

The drama returns with an extended season of twelve episodes - and even more wit, desire, and dramatic twists. As power struggles escalate and rivalries deepen, ambition drives every move, pushing loyalties to the edge. The series is produced by Happy Prince (part of ITV Studios).

Set against the backdrop of the stunning Cotswolds countryside and the glamorous, high-stakes world of 1980s British television, the second instalment will see the return of the all-star cast that won the hearts of fans and critics alike as well as introducing brand new faces. 

Careers, marriages, and reputations hang in the balance as personal and professional lives collide in a world where secrets can’t stay hidden for long. Bold, emotionally charged, and filled with unforgettable moments, “Rivals” is a thrilling ride through a landscape of breathtaking beauty, fierce competition, and life-changing decisions—where the cost of success could be everything. 

Reprising their iconic roles are David Tennant as Lord Tony Baddingham, Alex Hassell as Rupert Campbell-Black, Aidan Turner as Declan O’Hara, Nafessa Williams as Cameron Cook , Bella Maclean as Taggie O’Hara, Katherine Parkinson as Lizzie Vereker, Danny Dyer as Freddie Jones.

Plus Victoria Smurfit as Maud O’Hara, 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 ‘Bas’ Baddingham, Catriona Chandler as Caitlin O'Hara and Annabel Scholey.

Executive Producer and Rivals author, Dame Jilly Cooper commented: “I’m utterly sex-static filming for the second season is upon us. It was magical working with Happy Prince and Disney+ on the first season and seeing everyone fall head over heels for my beloved characters. I’m delighted to be able to work with them again and for everyone to see what further mischief they all get up to!”

Executive Producers for Happy Prince, Dominic Treadwell-Collins and Alexander Lamb commented: “We are so excited to be returning to Rutshire for an extended stay of twelve episodes for season two of Rivals. It’s very special  to have the same team return in front of and behind the cameras and we cannot wait to share more of Jilly’s world with our audience”.

Executive Director of Scripted Content for Disney+ EMEA, Lee Mason added: "It's a real privilege to have this phenomenal team back together for season two of Rivals. From the exceptional cast, the remarkable creative team behind the camera – including the one and only Dame Jilly Cooper. Disney+ audiences are in for an absolute treat.. Rutshire here we come…”

Rivals will return to Hulu in the U.S. and Disney+ in the UK and internationally.