Behind the scenes on Rivals season two: ‘It’s bigger, bolder, bonkier!’
Behind the scenes on Rivals season two: ‘It’s bigger, bolder, bonkier!’
Behind the scenes on Rivals season – A chilly November night in the Cotswolds sets the scene for a unique blend of drama and eccentricity as the cast of *Rivals* prepares for the next phase of their production. Danny Dyer, known for his dynamic performances, is already thinking about how to keep warm during the filming. “You’ve got to use those heat pads on your feet,” he explains, pointing at his own. “I’ve got two double ones for my toes, and Long Johns as well,” he adds with a chuckle. The location, Chavenage House near Tetbury in Gloucestershire, is already humming with the kind of energy that promises to elevate the show’s already high stakes. This is where the second season’s bonfire scene will unfold, a dramatic centerpiece that has captured the attention of both the cast and crew.
The Manor House and Its Past
Chavenage House, a historic Elizabethan manor, doubles as the home of TV presenter Declan O’Hara, portrayed by Aidan Turner. Intriguingly, Turner’s previous role as Ross Poldark in the acclaimed series *Poldark* was also filmed at this very location. “No one realized until my first day here,” he laughs, reflecting on the surprise. “They thought maybe they’d made a mistake, but the set has been transformed so completely I don’t recognize it as the place I used to shoot in.” Despite the changes, he couldn’t resist removing the “Poldark shrine” in the women’s toilets, a large portrait of his face that seemed to watch over every visitor. “It was a bit creepy,” he admits, while the men’s toilet sign—reading “Poldark peed here”—remains as a quirky nod to the show’s legacy.
With the *Rivals* season two production now underway, the Poldark tours of Chavenage House are expected to evolve, incorporating new elements that reflect the show’s expanding scope. The location’s rich history, however, remains a constant, providing a backdrop that feels both timeless and fresh.
David Tennant’s Perspective on the Show’s Success
Perched in a room that resembles a 1980s TV production office, David Tennant takes on the role of Lord Baddingham, the moral compass—or lack thereof—of *Rivals*. Surrounded by relics of an earlier era, such as Filofaxes and VHS recorders, he offers his insights on the first season’s acclaim. “The characters are absolutely captivating, the stakes are sky-high, and the situations are so compelling,” he says. “It’s the kind of storytelling that grabs you and doesn’t let go.” This season, the narrative has only grown more intense, with Tennant’s character, Lord Tony, facing new challenges that are even more scandalous than before. “I thought he was pretty mischievous in the first series, but this time around, I’m doing things that are truly despicable,” he reveals, leaning in with a conspiratorial grin. “Tonight’s scene, for instance, involves something slightly nefarious in the bushes. You can imagine what that might mean in the context of this show.”
“That sounds dubious,” I respond. “Yes, pretty dubious. Most of the things I do in this show are pretty dubious,” he says with a flourish, emphasizing his enjoyment of the role.
Tennant’s enthusiasm for the evolving storyline is matched by the show’s increased ambition. The production team has clearly invested more effort into creating a more immersive experience, with set pieces that demand greater attention to detail and scale. This commitment to grandeur is evident in the way the bonfire scene is being staged—complete with cherry pickers casting dramatic shadows and a crowd of extras forming a lively atmosphere.
Unexpected Recognition and Challenges
For Danny Dyer, the first season of *Rivals* brought an unexpected twist: his character, Freddie Jones, was hailed as a sex symbol. “It’s all because of the wig and moustache,” he jokes, still sporting the same accessories. “He was very kind. There’s not many kind people in this show, and while he’s powerful, fluent in multiple languages, and wealthy, he still carries the spirit of the working class. That’s probably what made him endearing.” He pauses, then adds with a wry smile: “It can’t be my belly and breasts, especially when you’re standing next to Aidan Turner. That’s a bit of a tall order.”
The moustache, however, has become a minor inconvenience for Dyer. He’s been stuck wearing it for seven months of filming, with another three to go. “I just want to see my top lip again,” he laments. “It’s a bit of a drag. My grandchildren only know me as a moustached man, and that’s starting to weigh on me.”
Expanded Ambitions and a Larger Cast
Victoria Smurfit, who plays Maud O’Hara—Declan’s fiery wife—notes the heightened energy in the second season. “There are more set pieces like tonight. It’s bigger, bolder…” she trails off, considering the perfect word for the description. “Bonkier!” she exclaims, clearly proud of her choice. The show’s expanded scale is reflected in the increased number of episodes, now twelve instead of eight, allowing for more intricate plotlines and character development.
Bella Maclean, who portrays Taggie, the love interest of the legendary lothario Rupert Campbell-Black, also highlights the growth in the series. “It feels more luxurious, more heartfelt, and significantly larger than before,” she says. The addition of more scenes and characters suggests a deeper exploration of the show’s themes, while the production’s emphasis on spectacle ensures that every moment is crafted with care.
As the bonfire scene nears completion, the atmosphere is electric. Fireworks burst overhead, and the crew works tirelessly to maintain the illusion of a bustling party. The blend of old-world charm and modern flair at Chavenage House seems to mirror the show’s own evolution, balancing tradition with bold new directions. With the first season already securing an International Emmy, the cast and crew are determined to push boundaries even further, ensuring that *Rivals* season two lives up to its promising title.
The collaboration between the actors and the production team is evident in the seamless integration of humor and drama. From Dyer’s witty remarks about his moustache to Tennant’s flair for the dramatic, each performer brings their own unique energy to the project. As the cameras roll and the set pieces come to life, the promise of a more ambitious and engaging season becomes increasingly tangible. Whether it’s the historical setting, the expanded storylines, or the sheer scale of the production, *Rivals* season two is shaping up to be an unforgettable chapter in the series’ journey.