The Queen Visits Disney+ Original “Rivals” Set

Today, Queen Camilla visited the set of the award-winning British Original series, “Rivals”, which is currently filming the second season at The Bottle Yard’s TBY2 Studios in Bristol. 

“Rivals” is based on the best-selling novel by the late and much missed Dame Jilly Cooper, and it’s set in the stunning Cotswolds countryside and against the backdrop of the glamorous, high-stakes world of 1980s British television. The second instalment reunites the all-star cast who captivated fans and critics, while introducing some exciting new faces. Following last season’s dramatic cliffhanger with Tony’s fate hanging in the balance, Lord Baddingham is back and out for vengeance, ready to stop at nothing to keep Corinium’s empire unrivalled.

Careers, marriages, and reputations hang in the balance as personal and professional lives collide in a world where secrets can’t stay hidden for long. Bold, emotionally charged, and filled with unforgettable moments, “Rivals” is a thrilling ride through a landscape of breathtaking beauty, fierce competition, and life-changing decisions where the cost of success could be everything.

During today’s visit, Her Majesty completed a behind-the-scenes tour of the set led by Rivals’ award-winning Executive Producers, Dominic Treadwell-Collins, Alexander Lamb, Felicity Blunt, Laura Wade and Series Producer Eliza Mellor. Her Majesty observed filming, met various members of the production team as well as lead cast members, including Alex Hassell (Rupert Campbell Black), Bella Maclean (Taggie O’Hara), David Tennant (Tony Baddingham), Nafessa Williams (Cameron Cook), Victoria Smurfitt (Maud O’Hara) and Oliver Chris (James Vereker).  

An exclusive first look at the new ‘Master Dog’ set was revealed, with Her Majesty getting to meet four of Rutshire’s finest canines, as well as stepping into the iconic Bar Sinister and the O’Hara family’s Priory Kitchen. 

The Queen also learnt how the “Rivals” production team has provided a boost to the creative industries in the South West, providing training and opportunities for young people from the region. Her Majesty met with the series’ BAFTA award-winning Production Designer, Dominic Hyman, as well as the BAFTA award-winning Hair and Make-up team, led by Hair and Make-up Designer, Jill Sweeney. 

A visit to the Costume Department showcased the outfits and designs celebrating the 1980s style and fashion of the era, led by Ray Holman, Costume Designer. The “Rivals” production team has collaborated with The King’s Foundation, and a member of the King’s Foundation alumni was present on the day, showcasing some of the costume work featured in the upcoming series. 

Dame Jilly Cooper passed away in October this year, but members of her family were present during the tour, as they celebrated the cultural impact of the legendary author.   Queen Camilla has lots of connections with the “Rivals” series, as she was friends with the late Dame Jilly Cooper, and the author even based the character  Rupert Campbell-Black on the Queen’s ex-husband, Andrew Parker Bowles. 

“Rivals” will return in 2026 to Hulu in the U.S. and Disney+ in the UK and internationally. All episodes of “Rivals” season 1 are available to stream now, on Disney+. 

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