A New Chapter in the Rivalry
The third season of Rivals is officially on its way, bringing back the beloved drama that has captivated audiences with its intricate web of relationships and power struggles. Disney confirmed the return of the series on Tuesday, just over two weeks after the second season concluded with a heart-wrenching mid-season finale.
As the dust settles following the scandalous events of the second season, the stakes are set to rise even higher. The alliances between characters will become more fragile, and secrets that were once buried will come to light. This third season promises to take the rivalries to an entirely new level, with new romances blossoming, old flames rekindling, and shocking secrets being revealed. In a world where power, passion, and betrayal reign supreme, everyone has something to lose.
The show follows the vibrant residents of the fictional county Rutshire, delving into the intense rivalry between the charming local lothario Rupert Campbell-Black (played by Alex Hassell) and the ruthless TV boss Lord Tony Baddingham (portrayed by David Tennant). While the third season is now confirmed, fans are still waiting for the second half of the second series, which will be released later this year.
Warning: major spoilers ahead
The mid-season finale ended on one of the most tragic cliffhangers in the show’s history: the shocking death of Monica Baddingham (played by Claire Rushbrook). The episode was a standout moment, capturing the attention of Bafta voters with its powerful storytelling.
Monica discovered that her husband Tony had been unfaithful again, this time with Maud O’Hara (Victoria Smurfit), her friend, neighbor, and wife of Tony’s enemy Declan (Aidan Turner). Rushbrook delivered a standout performance as the betrayed Monica, who found herself at Lizzie Vereker’s (Katherine Parkinson) house during a storm, reflecting on her painful and unsatisfying marriage. She vowed to “live like blazes” from then on. However, in a cruel twist, Monica was killed before she could act on her feelings for neighbor Enid Spink, having been hit by a fallen tree while driving through the blizzard.
Speaking about her role as Monica, Rushbrook shared her experiences on the Rivals podcast. She expressed her love for playing the character, saying, “I love getting on those scruff wellies, and the thick skirts and the Barbour jacket and pearls and just being comfortable in these amazing locations as if it’s just her living room.” She described the role as a real departure and a challenge, adding, “I was nervous but I am really very grateful.”
She also praised the cast for their openness and affection, saying, “We had a gorgeous, gorgeous time and I’m grateful for it.”
Fans will have to wait until later this year to see the aftermath of Monica’s death, with the second batch of six episodes set to arrive in November.
Independent readers are independent-minded global citizens. They are not defined by traditional demographics or profiles, but by their attitudes. In today’s increasingly fragmented world, communities value real facts and frank opinions delivered first-hand from a non-biased news brand that they can trust. Armed with information and inspiration, Independent readers are empowered and equipped to take a stand for the things they believe in.
