David Tennant Returns More Ruthless Than Ever In A Scandal-Filled British Drama, And The Latest Episodes Have Fans Begging For More

David Tennant leads the cast of the series alongside Aidan Turner, Victoria Smurfit, Alex Hassell and Bella Maclean

Victoria Smurfit stands with arms crossed, wearing a beret and dark sweater.© Disney+

 

After a lengthy wait, Disney+’s hit romantic drama Rivals has returned with the second instalment of its second season, and the latest episodes are already winning over viewers.

Set in the 1980s and adapted from Dame Jilly Cooper’s bestselling Rutshire Chronicles, the series explores the scandal-filled world of the upper-class elite in the picturesque village of Cotchester, where tragedy, betrayal and buried secrets are never far away.

David Tennant in a suit and tie stands among a group of people in a church setting.© Disney+
Tony Baddingham is more ruthless than ever

 

Warning: Spoilers for season 2, part 1 ahead.

David Tennant returns as ruthless television executive Tony Baddingham, whose wife, Monica, died in a devastating car accident during a storm at the end of the first season.

The second part of the season explores the aftermath of the crash, finding Tony consumed by grief and becoming even more ruthless as he struggles with his loss.

WATCH: The trailer for Rivals season 2

Keep reading to find out what viewers have said about season two.

The residents of Rutshire are reeling after the devastating mid-season finale
The residents of Rutshire are reeling after the devastating mid-season finale

 

What to Expect From Rivals Season 2, Part 2

The latest episodes find Rutshire’s residents struggling to come to terms with Monica’s death. Meanwhile, the rivalry between Tony Baddingham and Declan O’Hara over control of the Cotswolds intensifies, while Rupert Campbell-Black faces difficult personal challenges of his own.

Rivals season 2 part two opens to a funeral

Rivals season 2 part two opens to a funeral

 

The official synopsis offers a glimpse of the drama ahead: “Against a backdrop of hedonistic parties, Bonfire Night chaos, the Hampshire Hunt Ball and a turbulent Christmas, affairs unravel, alliances fracture and rivalries intensify. Caught in the middle of the frenzied franchise war, Taggie O’Hara must find the courage to follow her heart, while those around her face the consequences of ambition, power and secrets that can no longer remain hidden. But as series two draws to a close, who will get their happy ending?”

How Are Viewers Reacting to Rivals Season 2, Part 2?

The three newly released episodes quickly drew viewers in, with many saying the wait had been worthwhile.

One viewer took to social media to praise the chemistry between Taggie and Rupert, describing it as “off the charts,” before adding: “The rest of the characters are going through it in delicious fashion. Truly excellent television.”

There is a blossoming romance between Taggie and Basil in Rivals
Taggie’s romance with Basil blossoms amid her heartbreak over Rupert

 

Another viewer was already asking for more, posting: “OMFG, I am so happy #Rivals is back but I neeeeed MORE. I don’t want to have to wait until next week ffs,” while a third described the three latest episodes as “bloody brilliant”.

When Are the Rest of Rivals Season 2 Episodes Coming Out?

Episodes seven, eight and nine premiered on Disney+ on 11 November. The remaining instalments will follow every Wednesday, leading up to the season finale on 2 December.

Which Actors Are in the Rivals Season 2 Cast?

The drama brings together a high-profile ensemble, with David Tennant (Doctor Who, The Thursday Murder Club) playing Lord Tony Baddingham, Alex Hassell (The Tragedy of Macbeth, The Boys) as Rupert Campbell-Black and Aidan Turner (Poldark, The Diplomat) as Declan O’Hara.

They are joined by Nafessa Williams (Black Lighting, Whitney Houston: I Wanna Dance with Somebody) as Cameron Cook and Bella Maclean (Sex Education, London Tide) as Taggie O’Hara.

Victoria Smurfitt is delightful as Maud in Rivals
Part two offers more scandal and betrayal

 

The wider cast also features Katherine Parkinson (Humans, Here We Go) as Lizzie Vereker, Danny Dyer (EastEnders, The Football Factory) as Freddie Jones, Victoria Smurfit (Bloodlands, Once Upon A Time) as Maud O’Hara and Claire Rushbrook (Sherwood, Ali and Ava) as Lady Monica Baddingham.

Oliver Chris (The Crown, Trying) plays James Vereker, alongside Lisa McGrillis (Maternal, Mum) as Valerie Jones, Emily Atack (The Rumour, The Inbetweeners) as Sarah Stratton, Rufus Jones (W1A, Home) as Paul Stratton and Luca Pasqualino (The Musketeers, Shantaram) as Basil ‘Bas’ Baddingham.

Catriona Chandler (Pistol, Enola Holmes 2) appears as Caitlin O’Hara, while Annabel Scholey (The Split) is also part of the ensemble.

The second season additionally welcomes new cast members Hayley Atwell (Mission Impossible, Agent Carter) and Rupert Everett (Napoleon, My Policeman).

Rivals is available to stream on Disney+.

Source: Various

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