OK, so three episodes of Rivals season 2 dropped on Friday, but obviously we've already watched them all. So now we're relying on Jilly Cooper's iconic Rutshire Chronicles books, fan theories and the best behind the scenes photos from the cast to feed our obsession.

Well, 'thank GOD' is all we can say. Tony Baddingham and Rupert Cambell-Black, played by David Tennant and Alex Hassell, are finally back on our screens as warring TV executives for another dose of Rivals goodness. And as well as their ongoing battle of the egos, season 2 also delivers on spice, glam and OTT hair 'dos.

If, like us, you can't get enough of the cast and characters that make up the brilliant cast, how about we dig into their social media accounts for the best behind the scenes pics? Here's what the cast have been up to over on Instagram - and any insights we can glean from their posts for future episodes. When does Aidan Turner wear that red vest please?

The best behind the scenes photos from Rivals season 2

When Queen Camilla visited the set

bristol, england december 8: queen camilla (c) poses with actors nafessa williams (l), victoria smurfit (2nd l), alex hassell (2nd r) and bella maclean (r) during a visit to the film set of tv show rivals on december 8, 2025 in bristol, england. the queen visited the set of the popular television show to celebrate british television production and the legacy of dame jilly cooper. (photo by anthony upton wpa pool/getty images)pinterest
WPA Pool//Getty Images


Back in December 2025, the cast of Rivals were treated to a visit by none other than Camilla, to celebrate British television production and the legacy of Dame Jilly Cooper.

At the polo!

Maxim Ays has joined the cast as Sebbie Carlisle, one half of a pair of polo-playing twins. So, naturally, he took to Instagram to share some film snaps of the game. Will we be seeing more of him in future episodes?

The incredible pool party scene

Gary Lamont, who plays Charles Fairborn, shared a glimpse at his character in action, as well as some of the beautiful sets. "Rivals block 1 BTS bits. Wonderful old so and sos. 👠❤️"

Emily Atack's Bristol revelation

While the series is set in the fictional town of Rutshire, which is much like the Cotswolds, a lot of it was actually filmed in Bristol - as revealed by Emily Atack's photo in front of the Clifton Suspension Bridge (scroll to see!)

Bella Maclean's swimming pool pic

Bella shared a photo dump of snaps, including many with her Rivals co-stars, along with the caption, "Not long now 🙃"

Taggie's new hair in all its glory

The Dalmatians having their day!

Have we met these doggies yet? Maybe in future episodes?

Aidan Turner's red vest

A whole episode of behind the scenes goodness

We want more! We want more!