National treasure Dame Jilly Cooper penned the beloved romantic novel Rivals in 1988, which has now been transformed into a steamy TV series by Disney+ and Hulu. Set in the competitive TV industry of the ’80s, the story follows wealthy rivals Rupert Campbell-Black, an Olympic show jumper turned politician, and Tony Baddingham, a TV executive, as they vie for power and indulge in scandalous affairs in the Cotswolds. Cooper described the series as a tale of love and a much-needed source of cheer in a troubled world.
Written and produced by Dominic Treadwell-Collins, Laura Wade, and Elliot Hegarty, the show captures the essence of the ’80s with its opulent parties and dramatic storylines. The adaptation of Cooper’s book was initially met with skepticism, but after securing her approval, the team worked closely with the author to bring her vision to life.
The series delves into themes of love, sex, and class, exploring the destructive nature of societal expectations. The cast and crew, including actors Alex Hassell, David Tennant, and Bella Maclean, discussed their characters and the challenges of adapting Cooper’s writing during a preview event in London.
Hassell, who plays the charismatic Rupert Campbell-Black, revealed the pressure of embodying such an iconic character but found inspiration in Cooper’s guidance on set. Tennant, as the ambitious Tony Baddingham, highlighted the character’s relentless pursuit of success and the complex dynamics with his wife Monica. Maclean, portraying the strong-willed Taggie O’Hara, shared her admiration for the character’s moral compass and her interactions with Campbell-Black.
The series also features Aidan Turner as Declan O’Hara, a journalist navigating the cutthroat world of commercial television, and his strained relationships with his colleagues and family. Turner drew inspiration from iconic TV presenters to shape his character’s portrayal on screen.
Overall, Rivals promises to be a captivating blend of romance, intrigue, and societal commentary, offering a nostalgic glimpse into the glamorous yet tumultuous world of ’80s television.