As the cold winds sweep through the Cotswolds, a buzz of excitement ignites the set of Rivals Season Two. The hit adaptation of Jilly Cooper’s audacious novel promises to up the ante, bringing fans a ride that is "bigger, bolder, bonkier!" The cast—featuring the charismatic Danny Dyer, enigmatic Aidan Turner, and versatile David Tennant—is poised to deliver drama that captivates and entertains.
On this notably chill November evening, Dyer is fully equipped for the night’s shoot, merging his extensive acting experience with the practical needs of the outdoor filming. "You’ve got to put heat pads in your trotters," he quips, gesturing to his cozy double-heat foot pads. "And Long Johns, obviously." The warmth of the camaraderie on set rivals the literal chill outside, a telling sign of the success this series has generated—evident in its recent International Emmy win for Best Drama.
The enchanting Chavenage House, nestled in Gloucestershire, serves as the backdrop for Rivals' high-stakes narrative. Within its walls, Aidan Turner revisits familiar territory as he plays the charming TV presenter Declan O'Hara. "I don’t think anyone knew until my first day shooting here, and then word got around they wondered if they’d made a mistake," Turner chuckles, recalling his previous stint here in the acclaimed Poldark. "But the transformation is remarkable—I barely recognize it!" In a nod to his past, a whimsical "Poldark shrine" was humorously dismantled at his request from the women's facilities, while his male colleagues enjoyed a cheeky sign that read, ‘Poldark peed here.’
Meanwhile, David Tennant embodies the morally ambiguous Lord Tony Baddingham, who he describes as a caricature of mischief and moral vacuum. "In Season One, I thought he was quite badly behaved, but in Season Two, I do truly terrible things!" Tennant chuckles conspiratorially, hinting at a suspenseful scene involving some clandestine activities in nearby bushes. "Most of what I do seems... dubious," he admits, relishing the challenge of his character's evolving complexities.
Victoria Smurfit arrives to continue her portrayal of the glamorous Maud, Declan’s wife, affirming Rivals' commitment to character-driven storytelling that resonates with viewers. The anticipation builds as bonfires ignite outside, extra lighting creates an enticing ambience, and a vibrant crowd fills the air with excitement. Rivals promises to further explore the fine lines between friendship, ambition, and ambition's darker edges.
As the cast embraces the challenge of elevating their characters and the stakes involved in their world, it becomes clear: Rivals Season Two is set to deliver another exhilarating ride steeped in drama and intrigue.
Source: BBC Entertainment
