If you thought Rivals Season 1 was a wild ride, Season 2 cranks the drama, comedy, and jaw-dropping twists to eleven. Hulu dropped the first three episodes at once, and fans are already buzzing about the biggest shocker: Sarah Stratton's baby daddy isn't who we thought. In an exclusive chat, Emily Atack (Sarah) and Oliver Chris (James Vereker) spilled the secrets behind the twist, the insane one-shot dinner party scene, and what's next for their characters.
The Baby Daddy Twist That Shook Rutshire
In Season 1, Sarah's pregnancy seemed to point straight at James. But Episode 2 of Season 2 flips the script: the father is actually Tony Baddingham, played by David Tennant. Atack revealed that the idea came from her and Tennant during early discussions. "It was kind of mine and David's idea — I mean, David says it was his; I think it was mine — that we put forward to the writers," she said. "It gives Sarah so much to do. It just makes it extra interesting." Chris added, "It really tangles the web. Rivals is so much about the sex you can see, but it's awesome that such a massive story point is all about the sex we never knew happened."
The One-Shot Dinner Party: A Masterclass in Chaos
One of the season's standout moments is the dinner party in Episode 2, where nearly every character parades through Sarah's tiny kitchen, each wondering if they're the father. The scene was filmed in a single, 20-minute take. "We were so nervous about getting that right," Atack admitted. "It was all done in one go." Chris praised the crew, especially cinematographer Justin Hawkins, who "held this camera for 20 minutes, diving around tables and up stairs." Atack called it "exhausting and thrilling — like a play." The actors stayed laser-focused to avoid giggles, knowing the technical feat demanded their best.
Sarah's Unexpected Friendship with Rupert
After the dinner party implodes, Sarah turns to Rupert Campbell-Black (Alex Hassell) for solace. Atack loved exploring this platonic bond. "Alex and I were really happy we got to do those scenes together," she said. "It's a unique way of looking at relationships. Sometimes those are the good friendships because you really know each other, and you don't promise each other those romantic things." This dynamic adds depth to Sarah's journey, showing her growth beyond the love triangle.
For more on the show's behind-the-scenes magic, check out our interview with the Evil Dead Burn stars who revealed their own wild set stories. And if you're into high-stakes action, Netflix's 'Counterattack' is breaking records as July's biggest hit.
What's Next for James and Sarah?
Chris delved into James's psyche after the betrayal. "He's bumbling and vain, but this really knocks him," he said. Atack teased that Sarah's story is far from over: "She's got so much more to do. The twist opens up new alliances and conflicts." With the rivalry between Venturer and Corinium heating up, Rivals Season 2 promises more scandal, sharp wit, and unforgettable moments.
Stream the first three episodes now on Hulu, and stay tuned for the rest of the season.
