Rivals season 2 is almost here, and Disney+ fans are desperate to discover what lies in store for Taggie O'Hara (Bella Maclean) and Rupert Campbell-Black (Alex Hassell). The first season concluded with the duo finally admitting their emotions and sharing a passionate kiss. Yet the newest Disney trailer hints at stormy waters ahead for the romance, as she's heard declaring "you're not capable of love", while also suggesting a possible fresh love interest for Taggie.
Sharp-eyed fans had already clocked the fleeting scene showing Taggie gazing upwards at another character through her lashes with a subtle smile, as he munches cake with his fingers while locking eyes with her.
At an exclusive Q&A screening of Rivals season 2, attended by The Mirror alongside other media outlets, the ensemble discussed what might unfold for their respective roles. Luke Pasqualino, portraying Tony Baddingham's (David Tennant) illegitimate half-brother Basil "Bas" Baddingham, dropped hints about his character's trajectory.
When the moderator questioned whether something 'could be brewing' between Bas and Taggie this series, Luke remained coy. He responded: "Who wouldn't look at Taggie the way Bas looks at her." Continuing, he noted: "I mean, she's incredibly sweet, she's beautiful, she's got herself together, if not a little bit brooding over Mr Campbell-Black. But, I think Bas being the sort of Lothario that he thinks himself to be, I mean why not gaze over Taggie?"
While stopping short of confirming any romance, he did tantalizingly hint: "I think that relationship would be something that's definitely interesting to explore..." Could Rupert find himself facing an unexpected love rival when season 2 arrives? Watch this space.
Rivals season 2 returns to the breathtaking fictional Cotswolds backdrop of Rutshire, where its glamorous residents lead anything but peaceful lives. Disney's series overview sets the scene: "The battle for the Central South West television franchise reaches fever pitch as the war between Corinium and Venturer enters a dangerous new phase. More ruthless than ever, Tony Baddingham is determined to dismantle his rivals piece-by-piece, weaponising scandal and manipulating those closest to him to maintain his grip on power."
"Amidst the hedonistic glamour of 80s excess, the personal lives of our Rutshire heroes spiral into chaos. Marriages fracture under the weight of ambition, illicit affairs threaten to shatter families, and long-buried secrets ignite with explosive consequences. As rivalries push everyone to the brink, loyalties are tested and hearts are broken in the pursuit of victory. But what is the true cost of war?"
The first three episodes of Rivals season 2 will air this Friday, May 15, on Disney+.
