This cold start to 2026 can only be warmed up by one thing: season two of Rivals — featuring a very sexy Danny Dyer, no less.
If you’re anything like us, you’ve been counting down the days for another dose of Disney+’s deliciously scandalous drama. So, naturally, the only question on everyone’s mind is: when are we getting Rivals season two?
Good news. Disney has officially confirmed that the much-loved TV show is returning for a second chapter, and better still, we finally have a trailer. It’s packed with sex, drama and intrigue, and yes… it also reveals the release date for Rivals season two.
Consider us officially seated.
Dame Jilly Cooper – author of Rivals – sadly passed away in October this year, making the return of the series ever more poignant. The author and executive producer spoke out before she passed away to confirm the news, opening up about her “orgasmic" excitement about its renewal.
“Nearly 40 years after my novel Rivals was published, I’ve adored seeing the world fall in love with my beloved characters – Rutshire’s Finest," she said. “I’m orgasmic with excitement and cannot wait for the return of my superhero Rupert Campbell-Black and the rest of the characters in season two!”
Here's what we know about Rivals season 2 so far.
Is there a trailer for Rivals season 2?
Yep, we have a trailer, besties!
“Welcome to the naughtiest show on television” might just be the most meta opening line ever. Watch the season two Rivals trailer and squeal right along with us — because if this is the energy already, we’re absolutely not ready.
So Tony is alive and well, with a “headache.” Shower sex, tiny speedos, and stolen kisses aplenty. Also, was that Cameron back at Corinium? That's got to be awkward…
What happened in Rivals season 1?
First, a quick recap of everything that happened in the first eight episodes: the show loosely follows the events of Cooper's novel of the same name, which is actually the second book in her famous 10-book Rutshire Chronicles series. The show takes us deep into the lives of the English elite as they climb the social ladder through both business manoeuvres and romantic affairs.
The series begins as a long-standing rivalry between charismatic ex-Olympic rider-turned-Tory MP Rupert Campbell-Black and somewhat sinister TV station controller Lord Tony Baddingham comes to a head. Tony expands Corinium Television, bringing on new chat-show host Declan O'Hara.
Things finally come to a head (spoiler alert!) at the British Television Awards. Corinium Television wins an award at the event, but there is a whole lot going on behind the scenes. Tony ends up proposing to Cameron (Nafessa Williams), a former NBC producer who moved from the US to the UK to work for Tony, promising to leave his wife for her. However, when she reveals that she has been having a relationship with Rupert — and that she wants that relationship to continue — he slaps her. Cameron ends up hitting Tony over the head with their award and we are left with a shot of Tony bleeding on the floor in a tantalising cliffhanger.
In a Radio Times interview, cast member Danny Dyer – who plays Freddie Jones in the show – said: “We might be busy on the second series of Rivals so you know, Walford or Rivals – maybe I can do both."
Likewise, Victoria Smurfit, who portrays Maud O’Hara, told Radio Times: “I’d want a season three and four. You’ve got so many glorious characters to follow.”
Given the fact that Rivals is based on one novel of 11 books in Dame Jilly Cooper’s Rutshire Chronicles, there's certainly plenty of content for future seasons to work with.
A guide to who's who in the Jilly Cooper adaption.
Rivals season 2 plot
The synopsis for season 2 reads as follows: "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.”
Luckily, there is plenty of source material to draw from for Rivals season 2. Cooper's Rutshire Chronicles series is ten books long, so the show could easily run for a few more seasons.
Rivals season 2 release date
We have a release date for Rivals season 2. This is not a drill. We know when we get our next dose of sexy Freddy and naughty Rupert. So, when is Rivals season 2 hitting our screens? It's been confirmed for release on the 15th of May.
Glamour gives a verdict on the best telly coming in 2026.
Where can you watch Rivals season 2?
Rivals season 2 will be available to stream on Disney+. You can also find the previous season there, so be sure to binge it again in preparation for more hunky Rutshire delights.
We'll keep you updated with the latest news about Rivals season two.
