In an exciting move to enhance the viewing experience for audiences, Disney+ has unveiled a new companion podcast titled Rivals: The Official Podcast, designed to complement the highly anticipated television adaptation of Dame Jilly Cooper’s acclaimed novel, Rivals. This podcast promises to delve deep into the vibrant world of 1980s British independent television, exploring the fierce rivalries, ambition, and the intricate social dynamics that characterized the era.
Behind the Podcast
The podcast, hosted by renowned broadcaster Pandora Sykes, will feature exclusive interviews with key cast members and special guests, providing listeners with unique insights and behind-the-scenes stories from the making of the show. The eight-part television series, which is already generating buzz, is set against the backdrop of the tumultuous 1980s in England, a time when the landscape of television was rapidly evolving, rife with competition and daring escapades.
The Cast and Their Insights
Listeners can expect engaging conversations with a stellar cast, including:
- Alex Hassell as Rupert Campbell-Black
- Bella Maclean as Taggie O’Hara
- Danny Dyer as Freddie Jones
- Nafessa Williams as Cameron Cook
- Emily Atack as Sarah Stratton
- Gary Lamont as Charles Fairburn
- Lara Peake as Daysee Butler
Each episode will offer reflections from the actors on their characters, the plot dynamics, and their personal experiences during filming.
Exploring Themes of Ambition and Competition
A Provocative Glimpse into the 1980s
The podcast’s producer, Dominic Treadwell-Collins, aptly describes Rivals as “deliciously naughty and provocative.” This sentiment resonates throughout the podcast as it tackles the cutthroat nature of the television industry during the 1980s.
Emily Atack provides a fascinating look into the fashion trends of the era, discussing how the flamboyant styles reflect the characters’ personalities and the cultural climate of the time. Meanwhile, Danny Dyer offers a glimpse into the playful flirting and sexual tension between his character, Freddie Jones, and Lizzie Vereker, played by Katherine Parkinson. Dyer articulates the youthful innocence that permeates their interactions:
“They both become quite childlike within their flirting and their sexual energy. They don’t quite know what to do, but they’re giddy around it.”
Addressing Representation and Challenges
A Deep Dive into Complex Issues
The podcast also takes a significant step towards addressing more profound themes of race and representation in the industry. Nafessa Williams and writer Dare Aiyegbayo engage in a thought-provoking dialogue about the complexities of navigating a predominantly white, male-dominated sphere, sharing their personal insights and experiences.
Additionally, Gary Lamont shares the challenges of being a gay man in the 1980s, shedding light on the societal obstacles faced during that era. His reflections bring a poignant perspective to the discussions of identity and acceptance.
