Emily Atack, one of the stars of the highly anticipated Disney+ series Rivals, has described the show as a profound "love letter" to Dame Jilly Cooper, the celebrated author whose best-selling novel inspired the lavish production. Atack’s sentiments, expressed at the series premiere, underscore the deep emotional connection felt by the cast and crew following Dame Jilly’s unexpected passing in October last year, at the age of 88, part-way through filming. Her death injected a unique layer of poignancy and dedication into the project, transforming the adaptation into an enduring tribute to her literary legacy.
The award-winning Disney+ production plunges viewers into the cutthroat realm of 1980s British television, set against the opulent and picturesque backdrop of the Cotswolds countryside. Atack, known for her breakout role in The Inbetweeners, portrays the vivacious Sarah Stratton, a character pivotal to the series’ intricate web of power struggles and romantic entanglements. The series, which promises to captivate audiences with its blend of high-stakes drama and characteristic Cooper wit, is set to launch on Disney+ on May 15.
The Enduring Legacy of Jilly Cooper and ‘Rivals’
Jilly Cooper, a name synonymous with a particular brand of escapist, often scandalous, and always entertaining British fiction, carved out an indelible niche in popular literature. Born in 1937, Cooper began her career as a journalist and children’s author before finding immense success with her adult novels, particularly the Rutshire Chronicles. These novels, starting with Riders in 1985, became known as "bonkbusters" for their uninhibited exploration of sex, power, and the lives of the British upper classes. Cooper’s writing style was distinctive: witty, observational, and brimming with colourful characters, often thinly veiled composites of real-life figures from the worlds of publishing, television, and equestrian sports. Her books were celebrated for their humour, their keen social commentary, and their unapologetic embrace of pleasure and passion.
Rivals, published in 1988 as the third instalment of the Rutshire Chronicles, cemented Cooper’s reputation. The novel delves into the ferocious rivalry between two titans of the television industry: Rupert Campbell-Black, the charismatic and often outrageous MP and media mogul, and Tony Baddingham, the ruthless chairman of Corinium Television. Their professional battles are inextricably intertwined with their tumultuous personal lives, featuring a sprawling cast of ambitious wives, seductive mistresses, aspiring stars, and struggling producers. The novel’s themes—ambition, infidelity, loyalty, and the intoxicating allure of fame and power—resonate as strongly today as they did upon its initial release. It offered readers a thrilling, behind-the-scenes glimpse into a world of glamour and deceit, all painted with Cooper’s signature blend of satire and warmth. The enduring appeal of Rivals lies not just in its engaging plot but in its richly drawn characters, who, despite their flaws, possess an undeniable charm and humanity. Its adaptation for a global streaming audience on Disney+ highlights the timeless nature of Cooper’s storytelling and the universal themes she explored.
A Poignant Production Journey
The journey to bring Rivals to the screen has been a significant undertaking, marked by both creative ambition and profound personal loss. The adaptation, first announced in 2022, quickly generated buzz due to its source material and the involvement of a stellar cast and production team. Showrunner Dominic Treadwell-Collins (known for A Very English Scandal) and writer Laura Wade (of The Riot Club fame) were tasked with translating Cooper’s vibrant prose and complex narrative for a modern audience, while retaining its authentic 1980s spirit.
Dame Jilly Cooper herself was deeply involved in the production, serving as an executive producer. This active participation was a testament to her dedication to ensuring her vision was faithfully translated. Rufus Jones, who portrays Paul Stratton, Emily Atack’s on-screen husband—an MP navigating a mid-life crisis—recalled Cooper’s hands-on approach. He remarked that she was "so involved" in the show, even getting to see some early "assemblies" and "rough episodes" of the series. "She got to see something," Jones affirmed, providing comfort that she witnessed the fruits of their labour. Emily Atack corroborated this, stating that Cooper was "nothing but complimentary and happy" with what she saw. Jones fondly remembered her presence on set: "Proper supportive on the ground producer, you forgot she was this dame of the realm. You know, she was a mate by the end of it. It’s still a big loss."
Her passing in October 2023, midway through filming, sent shockwaves through the production. Atack described the experience as "kind of bizarre," noting how it imbued the series with "a whole new layer of love and sentiment." This unexpected turn of events transformed the project into an even more personal endeavour for everyone involved, a shared mission to honour Cooper’s memory and make her and her family proud. The series thus stands not only as an entertainment offering but also as a heartfelt tribute, a final cinematic bow to a literary icon whose stories have captivated millions.
Emily Atack’s Vision for Sarah Stratton
For Emily Atack, her role as Sarah Stratton represents a significant opportunity to challenge and redefine traditional character portrayals. Atack, whose career has seen her move from comedic roles in The Inbetweeners to more dramatic turns, articulated her ambition to "take that typecast and kind of flip it on its head." Sarah Stratton, Paul Stratton’s second wife and former mistress, could easily be relegated to a one-dimensional "raunchy" figure, a stereotype often seen in media. However, Atack highlighted the nuanced approach taken by the writing team.
"Characters like Sarah Stratton have always been written in such a one-dimensional way," Atack explained. "I think now, thanks to the amazing writing by Dominic (Treadwell-Collins) and Laura (Wade) and the other writers, they’ve really captured a woman like her and given her nuance and shown that we can really celebrate these flawed women and understand, not condone them and their crazy behaviours, but kind of learn to understand them a little bit more, rather than just vilify them."
This perspective reflects a broader shift in contemporary storytelling, where creators are increasingly committed to presenting complex, multi-faceted female characters. Rather than simply labelling women as "good" or "bad," modern narratives seek to explore the motivations, vulnerabilities, and societal pressures that shape their choices. Atack’s ambition is to "show people that these women are real and they have a story, and they have a background, and there’s a reason why they’re going around making all these awful mistakes, often to do with their love life." This commitment to authentic portrayal promises to make Sarah Stratton a more relatable and compelling figure, inviting empathy and discussion rather than simplistic judgment. It is a testament to the show’s potential to resonate with audiences who appreciate depth in character development, even within the context of a "bonkbuster" narrative.
A Star-Studded Ensemble and Creative Powerhouse
The Disney+ adaptation of Rivals boasts an impressive ensemble cast, signalling the production’s high calibre and ambition. Alongside Emily Atack and Rufus Jones, the series features several prominent actors who bring star power and gravitas to the iconic roles. David Tennant, celebrated for his versatility in roles ranging from Doctor Who to Broadchurch, takes on the formidable character of Tony Baddingham, the ruthless television executive. Aidan Turner, known for his charismatic performances in Poldark and The Hobbit trilogy, steps into the shoes of Declan O’Hara, a charming yet volatile TV presenter. Perhaps one of the most anticipated castings is Alex Hassell as Rupert Campbell-Black, the quintessential Jilly Cooper anti-hero – a role that demands a blend of aristocratic charm, roguish behaviour, and underlying complexity.
The supporting cast is equally strong, featuring stars like Lisa McGrillis, Victoria Smurfit, and Catriona Chandler, ensuring that every character, no matter how minor, contributes to the rich tapestry of the narrative. The creative team behind the camera is equally distinguished. Showrunner Dominic Treadwell-Collins and writer Laura Wade are joined by a formidable roster of directors and production designers, all working to recreate the vibrant and often outrageous world of 1980s Britain. The decision to film extensively in the Cotswolds not only provides stunning visuals but also anchors the series in the quintessential English setting that is so integral to Cooper’s literary universe. The collaboration of such talent, both in front of and behind the camera, underscores Disney+’s commitment to investing in high-quality, prestige British drama, aiming to attract a broad international audience with a blend of established literary appeal and contemporary production values.
Broader Impact and Implications
The premiere of Rivals on Disney+ carries significant implications, both for the legacy of Jilly Cooper and for the landscape of streaming television. For fans of Cooper’s work, this adaptation represents a long-awaited opportunity to see beloved characters and storylines brought to life with a significant budget and star power. It has the potential to introduce the unique world of the Rutshire Chronicles to an entirely new generation of viewers who may not be familiar with her novels, thereby reinvigorating interest in her extensive back catalogue.
The emotional context of Dame Jilly’s passing during production adds a profound layer to the series’ release. It elevates Rivals beyond mere entertainment, transforming it into a living memorial and a testament to her enduring influence. This narrative of a project completed in honour of its creator is likely to resonate deeply with audiences, fostering a sense of shared tribute.
From a strategic perspective, Rivals is a key piece in Disney+’s expanding content portfolio, particularly in the realm of adult-oriented drama. While Disney is often associated with family-friendly content, its Star hub, where Rivals will stream, allows it to offer more mature programming. Investing in a high-profile British literary adaptation signals Disney+’s intent to compete vigorously in the premium drama market, leveraging the global appeal of British storytelling and a strong, established fan base. The success of Rivals could pave the way for further adaptations of British literary classics, demonstrating the enduring value of well-crafted narratives that transcend time.
The series also taps into the current appetite for period dramas, particularly those set in the vibrant and culturally distinct 1980s. This era, with its unique fashion, music, and societal shifts, provides a rich backdrop for storytelling, offering both nostalgia for older viewers and a fascinating historical window for younger audiences. The themes explored in Rivals – ambition, class, gender roles, and the complexities of relationships – remain highly relevant, ensuring that the series offers more than just superficial glamour.
Ultimately, Rivals stands as a testament to the power of storytelling, the dedication of a creative team, and the lasting impact of a beloved author. It is a series born from passion, touched by loss, and poised to celebrate the unforgettable world created by Jilly Cooper. As Emily Atack articulated, it is indeed a "love letter," a heartfelt homage that promises to entertain, provoke, and honour the memory of a true literary giant. The series’ arrival on Disney+ on May 15 will mark a significant moment for fans and a fitting tribute to the inimitable Dame Jilly Cooper.
