Charlotte Mangel, Katherine Parkinson, Nafessa Williams, Victoria Smurfit, Emily Atack – Rivals S01 -2160p
About Rivals
Rivals is a British period drama / dark comedy based on Jilly Cooper’s 1988 novel. It’s set in 1986 in the fictional county of Rutshire and revolves around power struggles, scandals, romance, and rivalry in the world of independent television and the British upper class.
Premise
The story centers on two powerful men:
- Rupert Campbell-Black — a charismatic ex-Olympian, politician, and notorious aristocrat.
- Tony Baddingham — a ruthless TV executive running Corinium Television.
Their rivalry spills into business, politics, relationships, and social drama, pulling in journalists, producers, spouses, and lovers.
Tone / what it feels like
Think:
- 1980s British glamour
- Satirical upper-class drama
- Political intrigue
- Romance and scandal
- Dark humor / campy energy
It’s often compared to a “bonkbuster” adaptation—stylish, dramatic, messy, and intentionally over-the-top.
Main cast
- David Tennant as Tony Baddingham
- Alex Hassell as Rupert Campbell-Black
- Aidan Turner as Declan O’Hara
- Nafessa Williams as Cameron Cook
- Victoria Smurfit as Maud O’Hara
- Katherine Parkinson as Lizzie Vereker
- Danny Dyer as Freddie Jones
Where to watch
- Disney+ internationally
- Hulu in the U.S.
Is it worth watching?
If you like shows such as wealthy-family scandals, sharp British ensemble dramas, or campy period pieces with politics and messy relationships, it’s probably a strong fit. If you want subtle realism, it may feel exaggerated. Audience discussion often praises the cast (especially Tennant) and embraces its over-the-top style.
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