In an era where prestige television often takes itself too seriously, Disney+'s adaptation of Jilly Cooper's "Rivals" bursts onto screens like a champagne cork in a Concorde bathroom – which, fittingly, is exactly how the series begins. This gloriously unrestrained eight-part drama serves up a heady cocktail of power, passion, and polo that proves sometimes the best television is simply about having a bloody good time.
Set in the fictional county of Rutshire during the excess-fueled 1980s, "Rivals" centers on a deliciously petty feud between two titans of British society. In one corner stands Rupert Campbell-Black (Alex Hassell), a rakish ex-Olympic rider whose bedroom conquests rival his equestrian victories. In the other, we have Lord Tony Baddingham (David Tennant), a manipulative television mogul whose ambition is matched only by his capacity for duplicity. Their escalating rivalry forms the backbone of a series that's as much about power plays in the boardroom as it is about escapades in the bedroom.
A Cast That Knows Exactly What Show They're In
The ensemble cast attacks their roles with the perfect mixture of commitment and camp. Alex Hassell embodies Campbell-Black with a swaggering charm that makes his character's legendary lothario status entirely believable. His performance walks a masterful line between arrogant cad and magnetic leading man, making viewers simultaneously want to slap him and swoon over him.
David Tennant clearly relishes every moment as Lord Tony, delivering his lines with the kind of delicious malevolence that makes you wonder if he's been waiting his whole career to play such a wonderfully wicked character. When he purrs, "Revenge is a dish best served on television," you can practically see him savoring each syllable like a fine wine.
Emily Atack brings both vulnerability and steel to her role as Sarah Stratton, while Katherine Parkinson adds layers of complexity to what could have been a one-note character. But it's Aidan Turner who nearly steals the show as an Irish chat show host whose ego could fill Wembley Stadium. Turner's self-aware performance, which seems to playfully nod to his own "Poldark" days, demonstrates the show's sharp sense of humor about itself.
The '80s Have Never Looked So Good
The production design team deserves special recognition for creating a version of the 1980s that feels both authentic and heightened. This isn't just period detail – it's period excess, exactly as it should be. The show's Rutshire is a world where helicopter arrivals at garden parties are de rigueur, where everyone seems to own at least one piece of animal-print clothing, and where the champagne never stops flowing.
The soundtrack pulses with perfectly chosen hits from the era – Wham!, Bryan Ferry, ZZ Top, and Eurythmics provide an infectious backdrop to the proceedings. When "Addicted to Love" plays over a particularly scandalous scene, it feels less like needle-drop nostalgia and more like the only possible music choice for that moment.
Sex, Lies, and Videotape (Literally)
While the show doesn't shy away from the novel's famous steaminess, it handles these scenes with a surprisingly light touch. The sexual encounters are played more for comedy than titillation, whether it's the aforementioned Mile High Club scene or a naked tennis match that gives new meaning to the term "mixed doubles." The show seems to understand that in 2024, it's the humor rather than the shock value that makes these moments work.
More Than Just a Bonkbuster
Beneath the glittering surface of polo matches and garden parties, "Rivals" offers a sharp critique of power, class, and ambition in Thatcher's Britain. The television industry setting provides a perfect lens through which to examine these themes, as characters navigate the shifting landscape between old money and new media.
The show's examination of the changing face of British television – from stuffy BBC programming to the brasher world of commercial TV – mirrors larger social changes of the era. A rural drama called "Four Men Went to Mow" becomes an unexpected hit by applying the "Poldark" formula of shirtless men wielding farm equipment, demonstrating how sex appeal was beginning to influence even the most traditional of programming.
Minor Missteps in an Otherwise Stellar Show
If there's any criticism to be made, it's that occasionally the show's multiple plot threads become as tangled as the love lives of its characters. Some storylines could use more room to breathe, and a few supporting characters deserve more development. However, these are minor quibbles in what is otherwise a supremely confident production.
The Verdict
"Rivals" is that rare adaptation that understands exactly what made its source material work while successfully updating it for a modern audience. It's a show that knows when to wink at viewers and when to play things straight, when to indulge in excess and when to pull back for more intimate moments.
The result is eight episodes of pure entertainment that go down as easily as a glass of Buck's fizz with a cheeky slice of Viennetta on the side. In an age of gritty reboots and serious-minded adaptations, "Rivals" dares to be fun – gloriously, unapologetically fun. It's the television equivalent of a long lunch that turns into dinner, where the stories get taller as the evening progresses, and nobody wants to be the first to leave.
With its pitch-perfect casting, lavish production values, and ability to balance comedy with genuine drama, "Rivals" sets a new standard for period adaptations. It proves that sometimes the best television isn't about reinventing the wheel, but about making it spin with as much style and swagger as possible.
★★★★½ (4.5/5 stars)
"Rivals" is streaming now on Disney+, with new episodes released weekly. Trust us – you won't want to miss a single scandal.
Frequently Asked Questions About "Rivals"
1. When does "Rivals" release on Disney+?
"Rivals" premiered on Disney+ in October 2024, with episodes released weekly. The series consists of 8 episodes in total.
2. Is "Rivals" based on a book?
Yes, the series is based on Jilly Cooper's bestselling novel of the same name, published in 1988 as part of her Rutshire Chronicles series.
3. Who are the main cast members?
The series stars Alex Hassell as Rupert Campbell-Black, David Tennant as Lord Tony Baddingham, Emily Atack as Sarah Stratton, Aidan Turner as an Irish chat show host, and Katherine Parkinson in a supporting role.
4. What is the show's age rating?
The show carries a mature rating due to sexual content, adult themes, language, and alcohol use. It's intended for adult audiences.
5. Does "Rivals" stay true to the book?
While the series makes some updates for modern audiences, it remains largely faithful to the spirit and major plot points of Cooper's novel, including its signature blend of humor and scandal.
6. What period is the show set in?
"Rivals" is set in 1986, during the height of Britain's Thatcher era, and fully embraces its 1980s setting through music, fashion, and cultural references.
7. Where is Rutshire, and is it a real place?
Rutshire is a fictional English county created by Jilly Cooper for her novels. It's believed to be inspired by Gloucestershire and the Cotswolds region.
8. How many episodes are available to watch at once?
Disney+ released the first episodes on the premiere date, with subsequent episodes arriving weekly.
9. Will there be a second season?
While there's no official confirmation of a second season yet, there are plenty more Jilly Cooper novels in the Rutshire Chronicles that could be adapted.
10. Is it necessary to read the book first?
No, the series stands on its own and provides all necessary context for new viewers, though fans of the book will appreciate the faithful adaptation and subtle references.
11. What kind of music is featured in the show?
The soundtrack features iconic 1980s hits from artists including Wham!, Bryan Ferry, ZZ Top, and Eurythmics, helping to establish the period setting.
12. How does this compare to other period dramas?
Unlike more serious period dramas, "Rivals" embraces a lighter, more comedic tone while still delivering on romance and drama. It's more comparable to "Dynasty" than "Downtown Abbey."
13. Is the show appropriate for family viewing?
Due to its mature themes and sexual content, "Rivals" is intended for adult audiences and may not be suitable for family viewing.
14. Are there any trigger warnings viewers should be aware of?
The show contains scenes of sexual content, adult themes, alcohol use, and some mild violence. It also deals with themes of infidelity and relationship dynamics.
15. How long is each episode?
Episodes run approximately 60 minutes each, with the total series comprising 8 hours of content.
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