2026 has been a banner year for Hulu, but no show has generated more buzz than the return of Rivals. The steamy period drama, set against the opulent backdrop of 1980s British high society, has officially reclaimed its throne as one of the most-watched series on the platform. With David Tennant and Aidan Turner leading the charge, Season 2 is proving that the appetite for scandal, power struggles, and romance is as strong as ever.
After debuting in late 2024, Rivals quickly became a word-of-mouth sensation, drawing millions into its world of filthy-rich rivalries and NSFW antics. The new season picks up right where the first left off, with Tennant's Tony Baddingham licking his wounds after a confrontation with Cameron Cook (Nafessa Williams) and plotting his revenge. The cast also includes Alex Hassell's Rupert Campbell-Black, Bella Maclean's Taggie O'Hara, Danny Dyer's Freddie, and Katherine Parkinson's Lizzie, with newcomers Rupert Everett and Hayley Atwell joining the fray.
The show's return on May 15 with a three-episode premiere has been met with overwhelming enthusiasm. In the US, Rivals ranks among Hulu's most-watched titles, while in the UK it sits at #1 on Disney+ and holds the #7 spot globally. This success is a testament to the show's unique blend of high-stakes drama and unapologetic indulgence.
Critics have been equally smitten. Season 2 holds a perfect 100% score on Rotten Tomatoes, with many praising its shift toward more emotionally grounded storytelling without sacrificing the raunchy chaos that made the first season a hit. In her review for Collider, Therese Lacson declared that Rivals Season 2 surpasses Season 1 on nearly every front—a sentiment echoed by audiences worldwide.
The series also serves as a tribute to the late Jilly Cooper, whose novels inspired the show. Cooper passed away in October 2025, and the creative team was determined to honor her legacy with a second season that captures her spirit of wit, passion, and unflinching drama. Based on the reception, they've succeeded beyond expectations.
For fans eager to dive deeper into the world of Rivals, check out our exclusive interview with Aidan Turner and Victoria Smurfit, where they discuss Declan and Maud's toxic reunion and what's next in Season 2. And if you're curious about the rumors swirling around the Hunt Ball, our piece on the Lady in Red theory might just give you the inside scoop.
As Rivals continues to steam up streaming charts, it's clear that this is one series that knows how to keep viewers hooked. Whether you're in it for the power plays, the romance, or just the sheer spectacle of it all, Season 2 delivers in spades. Stay tuned to ShowtimeSpot for more updates on the hottest shows in entertainment.
