Alex Hassell, who stars as the charming Rupert Campbell-Black in the hit Disney+ series “Rivals,” has opened up about the deeply emotional last words Dame Jilly Cooper spoke to him. The Gloucestershire-born novelist, who created the story that inspired the show back in 1988, passed away unexpectedly last October at the age of 88.
In a candid interview with the Sunday Times, Hassell recalled how Dame Jilly’s sudden death profoundly affected him. “I was really knocked by it,” he shared. “She told me she was so glad I’m her Rupert and so proud of me. Then she got into her car and drove away. Talking about it now makes me well up.”
Dame Jilly Cooper was passionately involved in bringing “Rivals” to life on screen, even serving as an executive producer. Her vivid storytelling captured the vibrant, glamorous world of 1980s British television — a backdrop where careers, marriages, and reputations hang in the balance.
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Following Dame Jilly’s memorial at Southwark Cathedral in London, guests lingered with laughter, champagne, and joy that perfectly echoed her spirited personality. Hassell fondly described the scene: “We all just got hammered, which is the most Jilly thing ever. There were dogs running around. It was beautiful.”
Hassell, 45, praised the author’s work for creating such a captivating universe that viewers repeatedly dive back into the drama. “I think people watch it over and over because they love being in the world with the characters, and that’s the force of Jilly’s writing.”
He also admitted to initial nerves about taking on the role of Rupert Campbell-Black, a former Olympic showjumper turned Conservative MP, especially since the character was traditionally depicted with blond hair and blue eyes. But Hassell quickly won over audiences and embraced the role.
“This part has completely changed my life,” he said. “People recognize me more, ask for photos, but it’s all positive. The love for the show and the role means so much.”
For Hassell and fans alike, “Rivals” stands as a fitting tribute to Dame Jilly Cooper’s incredible legacy — a blend of passion, wit, and unforgettable characters that continue to captivate audiences.