Behind the scenes on Rivals season two: ‘It’s bigger, bolder, bonkier!’

Behind the scenes on Rivals season – Chilled by the November air, the set of Rivals buzzes with activity as the cast and crew gear up for a new season of the BBC series. The production team has opted for a dramatic touch, ensuring the environment mirrors the fiery themes of the show. Danny Dyer, a veteran actor with a rich history in television, is already bracing himself for the challenges ahead. “You’ve got to keep those heat pads on your feet,” he says, pointing at his toes. “I’ve got two double ones for my toes, and Long Johns, of course.” The location, Chavenage House in Gloucestershire, is the backdrop for a pivotal scene in season two, where the historic Elizabethan manor becomes the home of Declan O’Hara, a character portrayed by Aidan Turner.

The Legacy of Poldark and the Bonfire Scene

Interestingly, Aidan Turner’s connection to the site runs deeper than just his role in Rivals. This was once the setting for his breakthrough role in Poldark, a fact that adds an extra layer of nostalgia to the filming process. When the actor first arrived, he shared a humorous anecdote about the Poldark shrine in the women’s toilets. “It was just a big picture of my face looking at everyone who went to the bathroom. It was a bit creepy,” he laughed. In contrast, the men’s toilet featured a sign reading “Poldark peed here,” a quip that he insists should remain. The existing Poldark tours of the house will now likely evolve to include Rivals, reflecting the show’s growing popularity.

Dyer, who plays Freddie Jones, has noticed an unexpected boost to his character’s appeal. “With a wig and a moustache,” he chuckles, while donning a sheepskin coat that even Del Boy might have found unappealing. “He was very kind. There’s not a lot of kind people in this show.” Despite his wealth, fluency in multiple languages, and power, Freddie remains rooted in working-class charm, a trait Dyer believes has made him a symbol of attractiveness. “It can’t be my belly and breasts. Especially when you stand next to Aidan Turner,” he adds, hinting at the rivalry’s dynamics.

David Tennant on the Moral Vacuum of Rivals

Meanwhile, David Tennant, who embodies the morally ambiguous Lord Baddingham, is seated in a room that resembles a 1980s TV company office. The space is cluttered with Filofaxes, fax machines, and VHS recorders, creating a nostalgic atmosphere for the actor. “The characters are delicious, the stakes are so high, and the scenarios we find ourselves in are so juicy,” he explains. This season, the stakes seem to be raised even higher, as Tennant reveals his character’s darker turn. “I thought he was quite badly behaved in series one, but I do terrible things in series two. I mean really despicable.” The actor leans in conspiratorially, sharing a secret about a scene being filmed that involves a nefarious act in the bushes. “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.

The Evolution of the Show’s Ambition

Victoria Smurfit, who portrays Maud O’Hara, Declan’s fiery wife, highlights the increased scale and ambition of season two. “There are more set pieces like tonight. It’s bigger, bolder…” she pauses, contemplating the perfect adjective. Her choice is clear: “Bonkier!” she exclaims, visibly pleased. The addition of twelve episodes, up from the original eight, underscores the production’s commitment to expanding the narrative. Bella Maclean, playing Taggie, the love interest of the charismatic Rupert Campbell-Black, echoes this sentiment. “It feels more luxurious, it feels bigger and larger, but also more heartfelt,” she says, noting the emotional depth added to the series.

As the crew prepares for the bonfire scene, the atmosphere is electric. The surrounding area is transformed into a vibrant setting with cherry pickers casting moody shadows and a crowd of extras creating a lively party ambiance. Soon, the sky is illuminated by fireworks, a visual metaphor for the show’s escalating intensity. The production team’s dedication to capturing the essence of the story is evident in the meticulous details, from the set design to the actors’ performances.

Personal Sacrifices and the Art of Transformation

Dyer’s personal sacrifices are evident as he sports the moustache for the entire seven-month shoot, with three more episodes to go. “I just want to see my top lip again,” he laments, expressing a sense of longing for his natural look. “My grandchildren only know me as a moustached man, and that depresses me slightly.” His dedication to the role, however, shows no signs of waning. The transformation of the manor house into a modern setting is a testament to the show’s ability to blend historical charm with contemporary drama.

The interplay between the characters and their environments is a key element of Rivals’ appeal. From the ancient stone walls of Chavenage House to the modern-day antics of the cast, each scene is crafted to reflect the show’s core themes of rivalry and desire. As the filming progresses, the cast and crew continue to push boundaries, ensuring that season two delivers a more intense and engaging experience for viewers. With the bonfire scene setting the tone for the new season, the anticipation for what’s to come is palpable, promising a blend of high stakes, emotional depth, and unapologetic boldness.