FIRST LOOK Rivals

It's almost time to return to Rutshire...

Ahead of the second series of Rivals airing in 2026, Disney+ has released a number of first look images from the next instalment, based on the bestselling novel by the late and much-missed Dame Jilly Cooper.

These images feature the return of five iconic characters, including Lord Tony Baddingham played by David Tennant, Rupert Campbell-Black played by Alex Hassell, Declan O’Hara played by Aidan Turner, Cameron Cook played by Nafessa Williams, and Taggie O’Hara played by Bella Maclean.

The new series is still currently filming in the UK, ahead of its return in 2026, promising even more wit, desire, and jaw-dropping twists, as power struggles intensify, rivalries deepen, and ambition pushes loyalties to the brink.

Set in the stunning Cotswolds countryside and against the backdrop of the glamorous, high-stakes world of 1980s British television, the second instalment reunites the all-star cast who captivated fans and critics, while introducing some exciting new faces.

Following last season’s dramatic cliffhanger with Tony’s fate hanging in the balance, Lord Baddingham is back and out for vengeance, ready to stop at nothing to keep Corinium’s empire unrivalled.

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.

Made by Happy Prince, part of ITV Studios and written by Dominic Treadwell-Collins, Laura Wade, Sophie Goodhart, Sam Hoare, Mimi Hare, Clare Naylor, Sorcha Kurien-Walsh and Dare Aiyegbayo Rivals is produced by Eliza Mellor and directed by Elliot Hegarty, Jamie J Johnson and Dee Koppang O’Leary and executive produced by Dominic Treadwell-Collins, Alexander Lamb, Felicity Blunt, Elliot Hegarty, Laura Wade, Dame Jilly Cooper and for Disney+ EMEA Scripted Content, Jonny Richards.

Rivals will return in 2026 on Disney+