Rivals is the latest series to drop on Disney+ and drama fans, it's time to lock in. The eight-part adaptation of Jilly Cooper's iconic novel is now available to binge and it's packed with champagne, helicopters and outrageous 80s fashion.
The series starts with a bang (literally) as two characters join the Mile High Club, and the energy and debauchery just continues from there. There's even a naked tennis scene, which paired with the excessive wealth of the characters and steamy sex, gives Saltburn a run for its money.
The story is set in the fictional county of Rutshire in 1986. It focuses on the rivalry between dashing ex-Olympian Rupert Campbell-Black and egotistical Tory politician Tony Baddingham over control of Corinium TV. Almost everyone in the orbit of these two men are drawn into the power struggle, with dramatic and shocking consequences.
Here's EYNTK about the Disney+ Rivals cast and characters, with some familiar faces getting their kit off and swearing profusely. Don't say we didn't warn you.
Alex Hassell as Rupert Campbell-Black
Rupert Campbell-Black is dangerously charismatic and is the Tory MP for Rutshire, having retired from Olympic show jumping. He locks horns with Tony Baddingham over control of the independent TV station, Corinium, while also using his charm on any woman who will look his way.
You may recognise Alex Hassell from the Prime Video drama The Boys, and he has appeared in a number of stage roles for The Royal Shakespeare Company.
David Tennant as Lord Tony Baddingham
Lord Tony Baddingham is the single-mindedly ambitious controller of Corinium Television. He will stop at nothing to expand his empire, even if that means ruffling a few feathers along the way.
David Tennant is an instantly-recognisable face on TV these days, having played the iconic Doctor Who from 2005 until 2010. He's since been in various popular shows, including Broadchurch and Jessica Jones. After playing the lovable Doctor, he's moved towards more villainous roles in dramas like Inside Man and Deadwater Fell.
Claire Rushbrook as Lady Monica Baddingham
Lady Monica Baddingham is wife to Lord Tony Baddingham and is the ultimate caricature of the high-society elite, organising events and enjoying frequent games of croquet. She may prefer the company of her dogs, but she's loyal to her husband and backs him in everything he does - no matter how nefarious.
Claire Rushbrook is best known for her role as Roxanne in the film Secrets & Lies, and for playing Linda Earl-Bouchtat in My Mad Fat Diary. More recently she has starred in the BBC drama series Sherwood and Magpie Murders.
Luke Pasqualino as Basil Baddingham
Millennials rejoice as Freddie from Skins is back on our screens! After Kaya Scodelario's successful return in Netflix's The Gentlemen, it feels only right to see another Skins alum back for more drama.
Rivals cast member Luke Pasqualino plays Tony's younger brother Basil, who owns a sleazy bar and loves nothing more than a game of polo. He's just as charming as the other characters and enjoys being part of the upper crust.
Aidan Turner as Declan O’Hara
Declan O'Hara is a TV host at Corinium who is dragged into the feud between Tony and Rupert. He's a star journalist who's known for giving his guests a good grilling. Fiercely intellectual with an even fiercer temper, he is wooed to Corinium TV from the BBC by Tony himself, but feels he’s been swindled when Tony refuses to deliver on his promises. Furious, Declan vows to get his revenge.
If you're wondering where you recognise Aidan Turner from, he's perhaps best known as Captain Ross Poldark from the eponymous 2015 series. He also appeared in the 2013 film The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug.
Victoria Smurfit as Maud O’Hara
Maud is Declan's wife, a former actress who loves being the centre of attention—even if that attention is from men who aren't her husband. Maud agrees to move to Rutshire to support her husband when he takes a job at Corinium, but soon finds he is caught up in the local drama.
Victoria Smurfit is recognisable from TV series such as Marcella and Bloodlands. The Irish actress is also known for playing Orla O'Connell in the BBC television series Ballykissangel as well as Cruella De Vil in ABC's Once Upon A Time.
Bella Maclean as Taggie O'Hara
Tender-hearted yet strong-willed Taggie is the eldest daughter of Declan and Maud. She holds the O’Hara family together and keeps an eye on her younger and wilder sister Caitlin, played by Catriona Chandler.
Maclean most recently starred as Jem in the final season of Netflix's Sex Education. She's also had roles in the BBC drama series Silent Witness and award-winning musical Spring Awakening.
Nafessa Williams as Cameron Cook
Nafessa Williams steps into the role of Cameron Cook, a savvy entrepreneur with a knack for stirring the pot. Her character's ambitious nature and sharp instincts add a dynamic layer to the series, promising plenty of drama and intrigue.
Williams is recognisable for her powerful performance as Anissa Pierce in Black Lightning, and her versatility has also been showcased in roles in The Flash and Code Black.
Katherine Parkinson as Lizzie Vereker
Katherine Parkinson shines as Lizzie Vereker, a sharp-witted confidante who balances loyalty with a touch of mischief. Her character adds depth to the narrative, serving as both a friend and a source of comic relief.
Parkinson is known for her roles in The IT Crowd and Doc Martin, as well as her compelling performance in Channel 4 sci-fi drama Humans.
Oliver Chris as James Vereker
Oliver Chris takes on the role of James Vereker, Lizzie's husband, in the Disney+ series Rivals. Portrayed as a well-meaning but often bumbling partner, James brings both comedic relief and heart to the story.
Chris is no stranger to comedy, having appeared in series such as The Office (UK), Green Wing and The IT Crowd.
Danny Dyer as Freddie Jones
Danny Dyer plays the role of Freddie Jones, a larger-than-life character with a bold personality and brash demeanour. With his over-the-top personality and no-filter attitude, Freddie is the kind of character you can’t help but notice—definitely the one stirring the pot in the group.
Dyer is a familiar face from EastEnders and has appeared in films like The Football Factory and Human Traffic.
Lisa McGrillis as Valerie Jones
Lisa McGrillis plays Valerie Jones, a character all about fierce loyalty and a no-nonsense attitude. McGrillis has a knack for blending humour with genuine emotion, and you might recognise her from BBC drama This Is Going to Hurt and Channel 4 sitcom Dead Pixels. Her vibrant energy is sure to light up the screen, and you can bet Valerie will keep everyone on their toes.
Emily Atack as Sarah Stratton
Sarah Stratton is a sassy firecracker, navigating the ups and downs of friendship and rivalry in Rutshire.
Emily Atack is a familiar face from The Inbetweeners and Celebrity Juice, where her quick wit has made her a total fan fave. With her comedic chops, we just know this character is going to steal the spotlight and serve up some unforgettable moments in Rivals.
Rufus Jones as Paul Stratton
Rufus Jones takes on the role of Paul Stratton in the Rivals cast, Sarah's charming yet conniving husband, whose antics often land the couple in humorous predicaments. Known for his quick wit and engaging presence, Jones brings a delightful mix of charisma and mischief to the character.
His previous work includes memorable performances in W1A and Home, where his comedic talent has consistently shone through.
