'Ruthless world' of Jilly Cooper's Rivals series

A brand new drama series called Rivals has recently been released on Disney+, and it is based on a popular book by the well-known author Jilly Cooper. The original book was published in 1988 and has been adapted into an eight-part series featuring a star-studded cast, including Aidan Turner and David Tennant. Aidan Turner takes on the role of Declan O'Hara, a charming TV presenter from the 1980s. The series was filmed in various locations, including the picturesque Cotswolds and London, with significant portions shot at the Bottle Yard Studios in Bristol. This studio is noteworthy as it opened its doors in 2022 and boasts two main stages for filming. The show dives deep into the competitive and often ruthless world of independent television, showcasing the challenges and intrigues faced by those in the industry. Jilly Cooper, who is known for her engaging storytelling that often blends romance with scandal, served as an executive producer for the series. She was actively involved in the production process, which took place over six months last year. During her time on set, she humorously noted that she was often referred to as 'Jago's granny' because her grandson, Jago, worked as a runner on the production team. Although she had limited control over the final product, she did offer some suggestions, such as advising against having characters become too intimate too quickly in the storyline. The production team expressed their appreciation for the local talent in Bristol, with around 90 percent of the crew being from the West of England. They also had trainees from the area working in various departments, which provided valuable experience for those looking to break into the industry. With its mix of drama, romance, and a glimpse into the world of television, Rivals is sure to captivate audiences and fans of Jilly Cooper's work.