Dame Jilly Cooper’s death ‘impacted’ show, says Rivals star

The Disney+ show is based on the best-selling novel written by the legendary author who lived in the Cotswolds for over 40 years.

Dame Jilly died unexpectedly last October at the age of 88 years old, after suffering injuries from a fall.

The show is returning with series two, and Alex Hassell, who plays Rupert Campbell-Black, has spoken to PA about the impact of the author’s death during filming.

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“Her death in the midst of this whole show was really impactful,” he said.

“We were always thinking of her anyway because we’re completely in her world, her imagination and her taste.

“She’d come on set and be so encouraging, and she gave notes on all of the scripts in season two, which is so important.

“Her spirit really imbues every frame and every moment. She’s really missed, and we all hope this can be part of a testament to her skill and her nature and her outlook.”

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The second series of Rivals will return to Disney+ on Friday, May 15, and sees the return of Mr Hassell as Rupert Campbell-Black.

Aidan Turner is journalist Declan O’Hara, while David Tennant stars again as the ruthless Tony Baddingham.

Nafessa Williams will play the ambitious Cameron Cook, while Bella Maclean returns as the earnest Taggie O’Hara.

The new series also welcomes guest star Hayley Atwell as Helen Gordon, Campbell-Black’s ex-wife and mother of his two children.

Rupert Everett will play her husband, while Malise Gordon is Campbell-Black’s former showjumping coach and mentor.