Hulu's Rivals is back, and critics are already calling it a triumph. The raunchy period drama, based on Jilly Cooper's beloved novels, has returned for a second season that's earning rave reviews—including a perfect 100% score on Rotten Tomatoes from early critics. But does the show live up to the hype? Let's dive into what makes this season a standout.
The series, which first premiered in 2024 as a sleeper hit, follows the bitter feud between David Tennant's Lord Tony Baddingham and Aidan Turner's Declan O'Hara. Set against the backdrop of the gorgeous English countryside, the show blends scandal, romance, and sharp satire into a deliciously addictive cocktail. Season 2 picks up with Tony more determined than ever to destroy his rivals, using every dirty trick in the book to maintain his grip on power.
A Stellar Cast Returns—With New Faces
Alongside Tennant and Turner, the ensemble cast includes Alex Hassell as Rupert Campbell-Black, Bella Maclean as Taggie O'Hara, Nafessa Williams as Cameron Cook, Danny Dyer as Freddie, and Katherine Parkinson as Lizzie. This season also introduces two major new additions: Rupert Everett and Hayley Atwell (yes, Agent Carter herself). Their arrival promises to shake up the already volatile dynamics at Corinium and Venturer.
The battle for television supremacy between these two rival networks escalates in Season 2. According to the official synopsis, Lord Tony returns "determined to dismantle his rivals piece-by-piece, weaponizing scandal and manipulating those closest to him." Expect more raunchy affairs, blossoming romances, and plenty of backstabbing.
Critics Are United: 'Rivals' Season 2 Is a Win
Early reviews are unanimous in their praise. In a review for Collider, Therese Lacson declares that "Rivals Season 2 surpasses Season 1 on nearly every front," adding that the show proves "that more time and space to breathe is exactly what a show needs to mature into a resounding win." Other critics describe it as "a heady mix of guilty pleasure, trenchant satire, rambunctious comedy and out-and-out trash," while another calls it "trashy TV for grownups, but much smarter than it meets the eye."
If you're a fan of David Tennant's work since Doctor Who, this series is a must-watch. For more on Tennant's recent projects, check out our coverage of David Tennant and Michael Sheen's 'Good Omens' finale.
How to Watch 'Rivals' Season 2
Season 2 premieres this Friday, May 15, on Hulu with a three-episode drop. After that, new episodes will air weekly for the next three weeks. The second half of the season is slated for later this year, so fans will have plenty to savor.
For those who love discovering hidden gems, don't miss our list of 6 near-perfect Rotten Tomatoes movies to watch this weekend. And if you're a fan of classic rock, check out our feature on the most underrated classic rock albums.
With its perfect score and critical acclaim, Rivals Season 2 is shaping up to be one of the year's most talked-about shows. Whether you're here for the drama, the romance, or just the sheer audacity, this series delivers. Tune in this Friday and see what all the fuss is about.
