Rivals season 2 out now: Everything you need to know
Based on the famous novel by Jilly Cooper
Last updated 22 hours 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 show has finally made its return.
Starring the likes of David Tennant, Alex Hassell and Aidan Turner, here are all of the important details about season two of Rivals...
When is it out?
Rivals season 2 arrived on Disney Plus on Friday 15th May with the first three episodes.
The season has been split into two six-episode batches, meaning the remaining first batch will continue airing every week.
What happens in season 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).
Is there a trailer for season two?
Yes, there is! On 16th April 2026 the full length trailer for Rivals season two was released. The trailer, which is 2 minutes 36 seconds, gives fans an insight into what to expect for the upcoming season.
What does the season two poster look like?
On Monday 30th March 2026, 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)
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A sneak peek at what's to come:
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 2025, 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 it?
All episodes of Rivals season one, and the first three episodes of season 2 are available to stream now on Disney+.
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