It's been nearly two years since Hulu's Rivals first introduced us to the lush, scandal-ridden world of Rutshire. Since then, the show has quietly built a devoted fanbase, earned international acclaim, and secured a major expansion—from eight episodes to twelve per season. Based on Jilly Cooper's beloved novels, this steamy drama follows the glamorous, backstabbing lives of the ultra-wealthy in the English countryside. What was once dismissed as 'bonkbuster' fare now feels like the perfect recipe for prestige TV.
Season 2 Goes Bigger and Bolder
Season 1 set the stage with illicit affairs, soapy intrigue, and sharp commentary on class divides. But Season 2 doesn't just repeat the formula—it cranks everything up. New characters from Cooper's Polo novel join the fray, along with bigger sets, bigger hair, and even more scandal. The rivalry between TV production companies Corinium and Venturer is now in full swing, with Tony Baddingham (David Tennant) fully embracing his villainous side after surviving a brutal attack. His mission? Destroy Venturer and ruin his longtime rival, Rupert Campbell-Black (Alex Hassell).
Rupert and Taggie (Bella Maclean) may have ended Season 1 with a passionate kiss, but their path to happiness is anything but smooth. Rupert's promise to protect Cameron (Nafessa Williams) immediately complicates things, while Declan O'Hara (Aidan Turner) remains trapped in a toxic marriage with Maud (Victoria Smurfit), who is now pursuing her own career. Meanwhile, Freddie Jones (Danny Dyer) and Lizzie Vereker (Katherine Parkinson) navigate a secret romance while juggling their families. The result is a tangled web of love, betrayal, and ambition that keeps you hooked.
More Characters, More Drama
Season 2 introduces Hayley Atwell as Helen Gordon, Rupert's ex-wife, and Rupert Everett as his former showjumping manager, Malise Gordon. These additions, along with deeper roles for supporting characters like Bas Baddingham (Luca Pasqualino) and Charles Fairburn (Gary Lamont), enrich the story without overwhelming it. The season also delivers more sex and nudity than ever—think riding crops and excessive skinny-dipping—but it never feels gratuitous. Instead, it's woven into the fabric of a show that understands its audience wants both spectacle and substance.
Performances That Steal the Show
David Tennant is a revelation as Tony, leaning fully into his character's ruthless ambition. While this flattens Tony into a near-caricature at times, it's a necessary evolution for the story. Alex Hassell, meanwhile, brings heartbreaking depth to Rupert, showing a man haunted by his past and struggling to find redemption. Hayley Atwell, despite a sometimes-wobbly American accent, proves she's the perfect Helen. The entire cast elevates the material, making even the most outrageous plot twists feel grounded.
If Season 1 felt like a prequel, Season 2 is the main event. With more episodes, richer character arcs, and a willingness to push boundaries, Rivals has become one of Hulu's most addictive offerings. For fans of soapy drama with a sharp edge, this is a must-watch. And if you're looking for other shows that only get better with time, check out our list of 6 Overlooked Thriller Series That Only Get Better With Time or dive into Horror Shows That Get Better With Every Rewatch.
