Fans of Disney+'s steamy drama Rivals have been on an emotional rollercoaster this season, especially when it comes to the will-they-won't-they romance between Rupert Campbell-Black (Alex Hassell) and Taggie O'Hara (Bella Maclean). After a promising start in Episode 1, Rupert's decision to play hero for Cameron Cook (Nafessa Williams) sent Taggie reeling, leaving viewers desperate for a reunion. Now, with the hunt ball on the horizon, new teases from the stars suggest that the long-awaited payoff might finally be in sight.
The Hunt Ball: A Turning Point for RuTag?
In a recent interview, Hassell and Maclean dropped tantalizing hints about the upcoming hunt ball, a key event from Jilly Cooper's novel that could change everything for the fan-favorite couple. According to Hassell, the ball features a "very special guest singing cameo," fueling speculation that Chris de Burgh will perform his iconic hit "Lady in Red." The song, which already appeared in Season 1, Episode 3, is deeply tied to a pivotal moment in the book where Rupert and Taggie's romance takes a major step forward.
While some reports suggested the performance would happen at a wedding, the hunt ball seems like a more fitting setting. Hassell admitted he wasn't sure if the cameo had been officially announced, hinting that the show might have more surprises in store. "There's quite a lot of dance numbers that I don't think you'd expect," he teased, leaving fans buzzing with anticipation.
Maclean's Spinning Secret
Maclean was more guarded about the details but let slip a few intriguing clues. "There are a lot of animals in the hunt ball," she said, before revealing that she did "a lot of spinning" during the scene. This aligns with a recent British Vogue interview where she admitted to feeling nauseous while filming a sequence in a tight dress, spinning around with the camera. Hassell, who was reportedly part of the scene, joked that he had to fetch a bucket for her. He described it as a "really big Taggie moment" with "a lot of stuff going on underneath," suggesting the emotional weight of the scene matches the book's dramatic turning point.
Adding to the excitement, Taggie is expected to wear a red dress to the hunt ball, further hinting that the "Lady in Red" moment will come to life. For fans enduring a RuTag drought, these teases are a lifeline—a promise that the couple's story isn't over yet.
What's Next for Rivals?
While the hunt ball promises fireworks, viewers will have to wait until later in the season to see how it all unfolds. The show has been masterfully building tension, and if the book is any guide, this could be the moment that finally brings Rupert and Taggie together. For now, fans can rewatch earlier episodes and speculate on every clue. In the meantime, check out our interview with Aidan Turner and Victoria Smurfit for more Season 2 drama.
As the season progresses, one thing is clear: Rivals knows how to keep its audience hooked. Whether it's through unexpected cameos, dizzying dance sequences, or the promise of a red dress, the hunt ball is shaping up to be an unforgettable episode. Stay tuned—RuTag shippers, your patience may soon be rewarded.
