Hulu has released the highly anticipated second season of Rivals with a three-episode drop, following the widespread recognition of its first season in October 2024. Based on Jilly Cooper's '80s book series, Season 2 escalates the drama, with the rivalry between TV groups Venturer and Corinium at its peak. The new season delivers surprise twists and reveals, particularly impacting the characters in Rutshire.

Actors Emily Atack, who portrays the vivacious Sarah Stratton, and Oliver Chris, who plays the bumbling and vain James Vereker, recently discussed their characters' journeys in the new season. A major revelation comes early on regarding Sarah's pregnancy, initially believed by audiences to be James's. However, Rivals introduces a significant twist: the baby's father is revealed to be Tony, played by David Tennant. Atack and Tennant themselves collaborated on this idea, which was then presented to the writers. Atack expressed her excitement about this development, stating that it 'gives Sarah so much to do' and 'makes it extra interesting,' while Chris noted it 'tangles the web' in a brilliant way, focusing on 'the sex that we never knew happened.'

The actors also delved into the intricacies of filming a complicated dinner party scene in Episode 2, where Sarah hosts, and nearly every cast member interacts within a tiny kitchen, leading to a farcical sequence. This challenging scene was notably shot in a single, 20-page take. Atack highlighted the necessity of teamwork and the cast's unusual discipline, as they 'weren't allowed to get the giggles' due to the complexity and the presence of the camera and sound crews. Chris praised the director of photography, Justin Hawkins, for masterfully navigating the camera through the scene for 20 minutes, emphasizing the dedication required from the crew.

Further exploring Sarah's character, Atack discussed her surprising new platonic friendship with Rupert (Alex Hassell). When things fall apart for Sarah, she turns to Rupert, creating an interesting parallel to their Season 1 relationship. Atack found this exploration unique and modern, suggesting that a 'chaotic sex life' can lead to good friendships built on mutual understanding without romantic promises. She appreciated the show's willingness to explore the fluidity and openness in contemporary relationships.

Oliver Chris offered insight into James Vereker's inner psyche, describing him as deeply vain and self-obsessed. James is perpetually perplexed by not being the center of attention and cannot fathom why people don't see him as 'God's gift.' Despite his desire to lead Corinium, even while secretly acting as a mole for Venturer, James struggles with continuously being overlooked. Chris suggests that James would be utterly bewildered to learn that others perceive him as a 'complete buffoon, entirely useless, and fairly repulsive.'

Looking ahead to the conclusion of Season 2, Atack described Sarah's story by the end of the season with one word: 'Surprising.' Chris, after some consideration, chose 'Cracked' to describe James's trajectory, hinting at significant developments for both characters.