The highly anticipated second season of Rivals has arrived on Disney+, reigniting intense emotions among its dedicated fanbase, according to reports from the Mirror.
Warning: Spoilers ahead for Rivals season 2.
Released on Friday, May 15, the opening three episodes dive back into the captivating world of 1980s Rutshire, continuing directly from the cliffhanger ending of season one. The drama intensifies as Cameron Cook (Nafessa Williams) seemingly leaves her employer, Tony Baddingham (David Tennant), for dead after striking him with an award trophy.
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Against all odds, Tony recovers and embarks on a quest for revenge against Cameron and her allies, Rupert Campbell-Black (Alex Hassell) and Declan O’Hara (Aidan Turner). Meanwhile, the season explores various new and existing storylines, including the deepening romance between Rutshire’s famous novelist Lizzie Vereker (Katherine Parkinson) and Freddie Jones (Danny Dyer), as well as surprising developments involving Sarah Stratton (Emily Atack).
However, much of the viewers’ attention has focused on the complicated and tumultuous relationship between Taggie O’Hara (Bella Maclean) and Rupert. Reacting to Cameron’s fate revealed early in the season, fans took to social media, sharing poignant responses.
One viewer on X (formerly Twitter) wrote, “Oh my god just finished ep1 of #rivals and felt every emotion under the sun. Taggie you angel you deserve so much better.” Another added, “Both [women] deserve better. #rivals,” garnering tearful emojis from others mourning the situation unfolding onscreen.
The heartbreak continued as a fan lamented, “MY HEART IS IN TATTERS #Rivals,” after a particularly emotional scene. Frustration also boiled over, with one viewer angrily commenting, “RUPERT IS PING ME OFF TAGGIE YOU DESERVE BETTER QUEEN #Rivals,” while another demanded, “Rupert’s redemption arc better be worth it because right now he’s just ping me off in every ep #Rivals #RivalsS2.”
Despite the dissatisfaction with Rupert’s character, the season has generally received high praise. One fan eagerly declared, “I need the rest of the episodes now,” and others complimented the performances, naming standout actors including Emily Atack, Alex Hassell, David Tennant, Aidan Turner, Danny Dyer, Victoria Smurfit, Luca Pasqualino, Annabel Scholey, and Lisa McGrillis.
Viewers also highlighted memorable moments such as Sarah’s chaotic party scene and applauded the visually striking, campy aesthetic of the season. The addition of new cast members, notably Hayley Atwell, also generated excitement and enthusiasm.
Rivals season two has been released in two parts, with six episodes currently available and the remaining three set to premiere weekly. The next installment of the series is scheduled for later in 2026.
Rivals season 2 airs on Fridays exclusively on Disney+.