In a nostalgic move for fans of 1980s music, singer Chris de Burgh is reportedly lined up to make a special appearance in the upcoming second season of the popular Disney+ series, Rivals.
An Iconic Song Returns to the Screen
The Irish-British musician, famous for his 1986 chart-topping ballad 'The Lady in Red', is expected to perform the song himself within a scene for the show. This follows the track's use in the first season, where it soundtracked a pivotal dance between characters, cementing its romantic association with the drama's narrative.
According to reports, the show's producers were keen to secure a definitive romantic number to perfectly capture the era's late-Eighties atmosphere. Their solution was to go straight to the source, successfully booking de Burgh for an on-screen performance that promises to be a highlight of the new season.
Building on a Successful Adaptation
Rivals, which adapts Jilly Cooper’s beloved novel, proved to be a significant hit for the streaming platform. Its debut season garnered both commercial success and critical acclaim, establishing a strong audience base eager for more.
The series boasts an impressive ensemble cast, including renowned actors David Tennant and Aidan Turner. The addition of a music legend like Chris de Burgh for season two indicates the producers' commitment to enhancing the show's authenticity and star power.
What This Means for Viewers
This cameo serves as a clever piece of fan service and period detailing. For viewers who lived through the era, it will be a potent blast from the past. For newer audiences, it introduces a timeless song in its original context, woven into the fabric of a high-stakes, dramatic storyline.
The news, first reported on Tuesday 20 January 2026, has generated considerable buzz online, suggesting that the strategic inclusion of such iconic cultural touchstones continues to be a powerful tool for engaging audiences in period drama. The second season of Rivals is shaping up to be a must-watch, blending literary pedigree, top-tier acting, and now, a legendary musical moment.
