Jilly Cooper's Iconic 'Rivals' Characters Authenticated by Showrunner Revelation
Dominic Treadwell-Collins, showrunner of "Rivals Season 2," discusses the upcoming second half of the season, promising major developments and new characters. He reflects on Jilly Cooper's enduring influence on the adaptation and reveals key plot changes, including a clarified affair storyline and the expansion of the 'Jilly Cooperverse.' Expect significant fallout from Monica's death and heightened drama when the series returns in November.
"Rivals Season 2" has reached its halfway point, with showrunner Dominic Treadwell-Collins confirming that the latter half, set to premiere this November, promises even bigger revelations following a major midseason finale death. The upcoming episodes will introduce new characters and expand the Jilly Cooper's Rutshire Chronicles universe, integrating figures like Alejandro Mendoza from "Polo" (Santiago Cabrera) and David Hawkley from "The Man Who Made Husbands Jealous" (Rupert Evans). Additionally, Rachael Stirling joins the cast as the new character Araminta Pemberton, poised to stir up trouble.
Treadwell-Collins reflected deeply on the legacy of Jilly Cooper, who passed away at 88 last October. He expressed missing their collaboration and wished she could have witnessed the fan reaction to Season 2, believing she "would have been over the moon." The showrunner highlighted the indispensable role of Cooper's books in the adaptation process, describing writing in "Jilly World" as a lovely and personal experience that made him feel close to her. He emphasized the guiding principle for the writing team: "If in doubt, go back to Jilly, she's so clever."
The interview delved into several significant plot points and deviations from Cooper's original novels. A major clarification concerned Declan (Aidan Turner) and Cameron's (Nafessa Williams) complicated relationship. Contrary to the book's eventual reveal, Treadwell-Collins confirmed that Declan was telling Maud (Victoria Smurfit) the truth when he denied anything happened between him and Cameron in Ireland. This change, discussed extensively with Cooper herself, was a deliberate decision to subvert the expectation that all male characters are "love rats" and to empower Cameron, portraying her as tougher, more independent, and not solely defined by relationships with unavailable men. The showrunner also stressed the importance of building ongoing sexual tension between Declan and Cameron, viewing them as intellectual equals with a strong underlying attraction, which he finds "sexy to watch and to play."
Regarding the dramatic confrontation where Cameron nearly kills Tony with a trophy, Treadwell-Collins revealed the real-life inspiration came from his own accident involving a BAFTA award. This moment served as a creative departure from the book's portrayal of Tony beating Cameron, instead offering a visually impactful and empowering fight-back for Cameron. Changes were also made to Rupert (Alex Hassell) and Taggie's (Bella Maclean) storyline, including an early kiss at the end of Season 1. This decision was driven by the uncertainty of a second season, aiming to provide audience satisfaction and hope for the couple, while allowing for dramatic subversion of other beloved book scenes like the mushroom foraging and puppy birthday.
The expansion of the "Jilly Cooperverse" through "Easter eggs" is a key element for superfans. Treadwell-Collins teased connections to other books, confirming the inclusion of characters like David Hawkley and Alejandro Mendoza. He also mentioned subtle nods such as "Alderton Airlines," indicating a wider universe and setting the stage for characters like Lysander Hawkley and Luke Alderton, who are beloved by fans. The showrunner highlighted the deep appreciation for Cooper's work among the creative team, ensuring these details are woven in for an authentic experience.
The casting process for Rupert and Taggie was particularly memorable. After an extensive search, Alex Hassell and Bella Maclean's chemistry read for a Season 1 car scene left everyone, including Cooper, "open-mouthed." Bella Maclean's palpable fluster after the scene convinced Cooper that they were "my Rupert and my Taggie," underscoring the importance of her approval in casting her cherished characters. Looking ahead, Monica Baddingham's (Claire Rushbrook) tragic death will have massive ripple effects for all characters, particularly Tony (David Tennant). Araminta's arrival is set to "stoke the fire," causing tremendous upheaval for Tony's control over The Falconry and his personal life. Treadwell-Collins promised that "everything is going to blow up tremendously" in Part 2, encouraging the heroes to "live like blazes" while villains face consequences. While blooper reels are a possibility (subject to Disney's decision) and the Part 2 release schedule is still undecided, the showrunner is eager for audiences to see the next installment, assuring that they "take it up a notch."