New artwork released ahead of second series of popular Disney+ show Rivals

The new series is coming in May!

Rivals
Author: Alex RossPublished 31st Mar 2026
Last updated 1 day ago

Since its release back in October 2024, Disney+ and Hulu series Rivals has become hugely popular, with bosses immediately choosing to renew the show for a second instalment. More than a year after being renewed, the return date has finally been announced, along with a teaser trailer, first look photos, and fancy new artwork!

Starring the likes of David Tennant, Alex Hassell and Aidan Turner, here's all of the important details about the series two of Rivals!

On Monday 30th March, Disney and Hulu released a brand new poster for the second series, featuring the cast. The post read: 'They've made their bed, now they must lie in it. Rivals returns May 15 on Disney+.'. (sic)

Fans were quick to comment on the post, with many sharing their excitement for series two. One wrote: 'OMG I’m sooooo excited for this!!!!', with another adding: 'AAAAH, so excited 😍😍😍'.

A third wrote: 'May 15th can’t come soon enough!! 👠💋', with somebody else writing: 'The details are GORGEOUS and so very Rivals ❤️'. (sic)

When is it out?

Bosses have now confirmed the second series of Rivals will begin on 15th May 2026.

The news was a announced in a teaser trailer, which was released on Thursday 5th February. Check it out below:

What will happen in series two?

Disney+ say: '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'.

On Thursday 4th December, bosses released a selection of first look images from the second series, featuring five iconic characters. These included Lord Tony Baddingham (David Tennant), Rupert Campbell-Black (Alex Hassell), Declan O’Hara (Aidan Turner), Cameron Cook (Nafessa Williams) and Taggie O’Hara (Bella Maclean).

Check out the first look photos below:

Rivals series 2 first look


Rivals series 2 first look


Rivals series 2 first look


Rivals series 2 first look


Who is in the cast?

Check out the confirmed cast list for series two below:

David Tennant as Lord Tony Baddingham

Alex Hassell as Rupert Campbell-Black

Aidan Turner as Declan O’Hara

Nafessa Williams as Cameron Cook

Bella Maclean as Taggie O’Hara

Katherine Parkinson as Lizzie Vereker

Danny Dyer as Freddie Jones

Victoria Smurfit as Maud O’Hara

Claire Rushbrook as Lady Monica Baddingham

Oliver Chris as James Vereker

Lisa McGrillis as Valerie Jones

Emily Atack as Sarah Stratton

Rufus Jones as Paul Stratton

Luca Pasqualino as Basil “Bas” Baddingham

Catriona Chandler as Caitlin O’Hara

Is Her Majesty The Queen on Rivals?

On Monday 8th December, Disney+ and the Rivals production team welcomed her Majesty, The Queen to the Rivals set.

During her visit, Her Majesty completed a behind-the-scenes tour of the set led by Rivals' award-winning Executive Producers, Dominic Treadwell-Collins, Alexander Lamb, Felicity Blunt and Laura Wade and Series Producer Eliza Mellor.

Her Majesty observed filming, met various members of the production team as well as lead cast members including Alex Hassell (Rupert Campbell Black), Bella Maclean (Taggie O’Hara), David Tennant (Tony Baddingham), Nafessa Williams (Cameron Cook), Victoria Smurfitt (Maud O’Hara) and Oliver Chris (James Vereker).

An exclusive first look of the new Master Dog set was revealed with Her Majesty getting to meet four of Rutshire’s finest canines, as well as stepping into the iconic Bar Sinister and the O’Hara family’s Priory Kitchen.

Despite the visit, she won't appear on the show!

How can I watch the first series?

All episodes of Rivals series one are available to stream now on Disney+.

How can I watch Disney+?

You can sign up for Disney+ for only £5.99 per month. 18+. Subscription required. Ts & Cs Apply.

Sign up here.

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