Author of Rivals Told Writers to Stop Making Her ‘Macho Men’ Cry

Author of Rivals told writers to stop – During a recent panel at the Hay Festival, Laura Wade, a key writer and executive producer of the Disney+ series *Rivals*, shared a personal anecdote about Dame Jilly Cooper’s unique approach to storytelling. The author, best known for her acclaimed *Rutshire Chronicles* series, had a specific way of interacting with the creative team behind her adaptation. Wade described Cooper as a “ray of human sunshine” but noted her trademark habit of delivering pointed feedback to ensure the characters she cherished were portrayed authentically.

Dame Jilly Cooper’s Literary Influence

Dame Jilly, a celebrated English author and journalist, gained fame for her witty and vivid narratives that centered on the lives of the affluent, countryside-savvy elite. Her *Rutshire Chronicles* series, spanning 11 novels, delved into the intricate social dynamics and scandalous affairs of this class, blending humor with deep character development. The second book in the series, *Rivals*, published in 1988, became a cornerstone of her work and later captivated a new generation of fans when adapted into a hit Disney+ series in 2024.

Wade highlighted Cooper’s hands-on involvement in the show’s production, emphasizing how the author’s insights shaped the adaptation. “We were so lucky to have Jilly,” Wade remarked. “She would tell us, if I was making Rupert (Campbell-Black) cry too often, that was one of her favourites – ‘stop making my macho men cry all the time’.” This playful yet firm critique underscored Cooper’s deep connection to her fictional characters, even as she maintained a lighthearted tone during their creation.

The Rivals Adaptation and Its Impact

The *Rivals* adaptation, which launched in 2024, brought Cooper’s world to life on screen, blending the elegance of her prose with modern storytelling. The series, a cultural phenomenon, garnered widespread acclaim for its blend of drama, romance, and social commentary. However, Cooper’s presence in the creative process was not limited to her initial approval; she remained deeply engaged, offering guidance that ensured her characters resonated with both fans and critics.

Wade’s recollection of Cooper’s feedback revealed her discerning eye for detail. “She would tell us, if I was making Rupert cry too often, that was one of her favourites – ‘stop making my macho men cry all the time’.” This line, though seemingly simple, captured the essence of Cooper’s storytelling philosophy. She valued strength and resilience in her characters, often insisting that their emotions should be portrayed with nuance rather than excessive sentimentality. The quote also highlighted her sense of humor, as she humorously referred to her protagonists as “macho men” despite their complex inner lives.

A Sudden Passing and Enduring Legacy

Dame Jilly Cooper passed away unexpectedly last October, at the age of 88, following a fall at home. Her death sent shockwaves through the literary world, with Queen Camilla leading the tributes. Describing her as a “legend” and a “wonderfully witty and compassionate friend,” the Queen added a poetic touch to her eulogy: “May her hereafter be filled with impossibly handsome men and devoted dogs.” This remark echoed Cooper’s own affection for the idealized traits of her characters, now extended to her personal life.

Victoria Smurfit, who portrayed Maud O’Hara in *Rivals*, recounted the moment the cast learned of Cooper’s passing. “I came back from a break and Eliza Mellor, our extraordinary on-set producer, was in the room,” Smurfit said. “Everything about her was devastated, and I remember walking in and going, ‘Oh God, someone’s died’.” The actress emphasized how Cooper’s presence had been a constant, even as the production progressed. “She’d been across all the episodes, she’d been across season three, she’d been across everything, and she dropped and rolled… And now she gets to have fun up there.” This sentiment reflected the deep admiration the cast felt for Cooper’s vibrant spirit and unwavering dedication.

Cooper’s Lasting Influence on Literature and Television

Dame Jilly’s legacy extends beyond her books, as her work on *Rivals* demonstrated her ability to transcend mediums. She sold over 11 million copies of her novels in the UK alone, a testament to her enduring popularity. Her involvement in the TV adaptation, serving as an executive producer, highlighted her role in shaping both the literary and visual worlds of her characters. Despite her passing, the show’s success ensured that her vision would continue to inspire audiences.

Cooper’s critique of the show’s portrayal of her characters also revealed her insistence on balancing emotion with authenticity. By telling the team to “stop making my macho men cry all the time,” she emphasized that her protagonists should embody resilience and charisma, even in moments of vulnerability. This approach resonated with fans, who appreciated the strength and depth of her creations, now brought to life on screen.

Memoirs and Reflections on a Multifaceted Career

Cooper’s career was marked by a seamless blend of authorship and media collaboration. Her *Rutshire Chronicles* series, which explored the lives of the wealthy and horse-loving elite, had already established her as a master of character-driven narratives. The *Rivals* adaptation, however, showcased her adaptability and creative vision, proving that her storytelling could thrive in new formats. Wade noted that Cooper’s feedback was both a challenge and a gift, pushing the team to refine their portrayal of her characters while maintaining the show’s emotional core.

Smurfit’s account of the cast’s reaction to Cooper’s death further illustrated the profound impact she had on those who worked with her. The moment she learned of her passing, Smurfit described the team’s collective sense of loss, highlighting how Cooper’s absence felt deeply personal. “She’d been across all the episodes, she’d been across season three, she’d been across everything,” Smurfit said. “And she dropped and rolled… And now she gets to have fun up there.” This metaphor captured the essence of Cooper’s life and work—always in motion, always captivating.

Her literary contributions, combined with her active role in the *Rivals* production, cemented her status as a multifaceted figure in both print and television. Cooper’s ability to connect with readers and creators alike demonstrated her enduring influence. Even as she left the physical world, her characters and stories lived on, a celebration of her wit, compassion, and unyielding passion for storytelling. The Queen’s tribute, referencing “impossibly handsome men and devoted dogs,” served as a fitting homage to a woman who embodied the charm and resilience she so lovingly depicted in her novels.

Conclusion: A Legacy of Laughter and Light

Cooper’s life and work remain a source of inspiration, bridging the gap between literature and television with remarkable finesse. Her critique of the *Rivals* adaptation, though lighthearted, underscored her belief in the importance of character authenticity. As the series continues to resonate with audiences, it stands as a tribute to her legacy—a legacy that will forever be associated with the sparkling personalities and heartfelt stories she brought to life.