It's nearly here! Rivals season 2 has officially landed on our TV screens as of today (18th October) and we can finally dive fully into the world of Jilly Cooper. The long-awaited second series dives back into the cut-throat TV industry in the 1980s and brings to life the next half of Cooper's most iconic Rutshire Chronicles novels. But where can you watch the second series? And crucially what else do you need to know about it? Consider this your 101 on all things Rivals.
What happens in Rivals season 2?
Rivals season two is a 12-part series (season one was only eight episodes!) based on Jilly Cooper's best selling novel of the same name. Starring David Tennant and Alex Hassell, the battle for the Central South West television franchise reaches a fever pitch as the war between Corinium and Venturer enters a dangerous new phase.
More ruthless than ever, Tony Baddingham (Tennant) is determined to dismantle his rivals piece-by-piece, weaponising scandal and manipulating those closest to him to maintain his grip on power.
Amidst the hedonistic glamour of 80s excess, the personal lives of our Rutshire heroes spiral into chaos. Marriages fracture under the weight of ambition, illicit affairs threaten to shatter families, and long-buried secrets ignite with explosive consequences. As rivalries push everyone to the brink, loyalties are tested and hearts are broken in the pursuit of victory. But what is the true cost of war?
When did Rivals season 2 premiere?
Rivals season 2 debuts on Disney+ on 15th May 2026, with the first three episodes released at the same time aka perfect for binge-watching.
How to watch Rivals season 2 in the UK
Rivals is a Disney+ original series and therefore is available to watch on the streaming site from 15th May, with the remaining three episodes arriving on a weekly basis from 7am.
A Disney+ membership costs just £4.99 a month for the standard with adverts plan. Or if you want to watch uninterrupted a standard plan without adverts costs £8.99 a month or £89.90 annually. With this plan you can stream on up to two devices at a time, and download on up to 10 devices.
And a Premium membership costs £12.99 a month or £129.90 annually. This membership allows you to stream without adverts, watch on up to four devices at a time and download on up to 10 devices.
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