Latest news with #JillyCooper
Daily Mail
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Daily Mail
EXCLUSIVE A furious wife hurling his clothes into Indian Ocean, sex at county shows and all-nighters in immaculate riding gear: How Jilly Cooper's saucy showjumper Rupert Campbell-Black has got nothing on real life star Nick Skelton
Once the undisputed enfant terrible of show jumping, Nick Skelton has long put his wild days behind him. Boozy hi jinks, sexual shenanigans, punch ups with rivals, he was guilty of the lot in his time, his antics often eclipsing those of Jilly Cooper's fictional bounders. 'I'm too old for all that,' he sighs. 'They were fun times but I'm 67 now.' Age was never previously a barrier, though. Not for this old stager, the superstar horseman who broke his neck in a horrifying fall and was told he would never ride again - only to jump back in the saddle and win Olympic gold at the age of 58. We're discussing a documentary feature film about his colourful life and career - Big Star: The Nick Skelton Story - while sitting in a gazebo overlooking the arena at the Royal Windsor Horse Show, the stage where he took his final bow in 2017, when, to cheers and tears, steed at his side, he raised his arm aloft as these words rang out over the public address system: 'The greatest show jumper the world has ever seen!' It is little surprise that a Hollywood producer came calling. One wonders why it took so long. 'It's been in the making for the past seven years, Covid got in the way,' Skelton explains. Like others of its ilk - an obvious comparison is Senna, a film about the life of Brazilian motor racing champion Ayrton Senna - the final result is a compelling story that demands of its audience no previous knowledge of, or interest in, the sport in question. A bit like a Jilly Cooper bonkbuster then. Well, not exactly. For one thing, comparisons between Skelton and her anti-hero Rupert Campbell-Black, the upper class show jumper who seduces his way around the countryside in fictional Rutshire, only go so far. The son of a chemist, Skelton projects unpretentious ordinariness. His Warwickshire burr, unchanged despite years of hobnobbing with royals, somehow makes the outstanding sporting achievements he recounts seem even more dazzling. He lists the injuries he suffered. I lose count. It seems he broke almost as many bones as equestrian records. As someone in the film notes: 'He has more titanium in his body than a Space Shuttle.' Today, wearing a cap and body warmer, he has the air of a man who's popped round to quote for a patio. Indeed, if he wasn't a professional show jumper he says he'd have been a builder. No, he's certainly no Campbell-Black, the blue-blooded cad who, in the opening scene of Disney's adaptation of Rivals reaffirms his membership of the mile-high club as Concorde hits Mach 1. Skelton is an earthy soul, too, but determinedly down to earth. In his autobiography, Gold, he recalls the racy delights of the county show circuit: 'There would be beer everywhere, farmers in their wellies and a few birds about.' On one occasion 'one of the lads pulled a bird who showed donkeys. They went off behind the hot-dog van to do whatever came natural to them and while they were at it the van packed up and drove off, leaving him with his backside going up and everyone cheering him on!' More redolent of Jilly Cooper novel was the time, much later, when his first wife locked him out of their Mauritius hotel room and threw his clothes into the Indian Ocean after discovering he was having an affair with the wife of a Swiss equestrian rider. Skelton tells me the sport has changed immeasurably in recent years and has 'got a lot more serious because of the huge prize money and sponsorship. The sponsors want their pound of flesh.' With a hint of regret, he says of today's show jumpers: 'You're more likely to find them in the gym than the bar.' The film - the Big Star in the title is the wonder horse who helped Skelton win gold - goes on general release at cinemas across the country next month. 'It feels really humbling,' says Skelton. 'It's great for the sport and I hope it will inspire others and make them realise, that its not just horse and rider, that there's a lot that goes on behind the scene.' And not just grooming, training and mucking out. As a fellow competitor notes of Skelton and his British teammates: 'Those guys together, they'd get themselves into trouble.' Skelton's partner for the past 19 years, US show jumper Laura Kraut, adds: 'They were just fun, you'd meet them in the bar and they had this uncanny ability to stay up all night then show up at eight o'clock next morning and go and win.' After graduating from the beery county shows, Skelton continued to ride hard and play hard. Once, an all-night drinking binge in Dublin earned him a dressing down from the manager of the Great Britain team, who threatened to report him to the stewards if his behaviour did not improve. During the course of a riotous night, Skelton had gone from the bar at a horse show to the Embassy, then to a party and, still clad in his boots and breeches from the previous day, back to the showground where he was due to compete later that day. 'We used to celebrate, of course we did, we were good at that,' laughs Skelton. Midway into the film, which includes contributions from mainly horsey folk, Bruce Springsteen and his singer-songwriter wife Patti Scialfa make an incongruous appearance. It turns out Skelton is a friend and coaches their daughter Jessica, an Olympic silver medallist. 'Nick is a rock star, only he rides a horse instead of carrying a guitar around,' says Patti. It is her husband who, of all the film's contributors, best articulates Skelton's iron will power and determination. Springsteen says: 'You've got to have a hot fire in the furnace in order to take you where you want to go. Nick has that, he's one of those guys... it's almost as if he wills his wins.' If Skelton's career had ended in 2000 when he suffered what was believed to be a career-ending neck injury, he would still be considered one of the sports all-time greats. But against the odds, he achieved so much more, including Olympic gold medals at London 2012 and in Rio four years later. In a fall at a show in Cheshire, he broke his C1 vertebra in two places and snapped a ligament which tore away a piece of his spine. Months in a metal neck brace followed and he was advised by surgeons to give up riding or risk a fatal injury. Reluctantly, he retired from the sport in 2001 but to the amazement of many, the following year he was told by a German specialist that the bones in his neck had healed beyond expectations so he returned to the saddle - and competing at the very top. It allowed him to continue a career that has spanned four decades and seen him win five World Championship medals and nine European medals as well as holding the British record for jumping the highest fence ever cleared over 7ft 7in in 1979. Does he miss competing? 'No, not really. I achieved everything I wanted to achieve.' These days he trains young riders and horses and keeps a keen eye on the careers of his partner Laura and sons Harry, a champion jockey and Dan, a top trainer. He says: 'Just the other day I was coming out of a reception at Windsor Castle and of the security guy's said, 'You're Dan Skelton's father, aren't you?'. I thought that was quite funny.' * Big Star: The Story of Nick Skelton will be in cinemas from June 6. For cinema locations, visit
Business Upturn
26-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Business Upturn
Rivals Season 2: Release date speculation, cast and plot details – Everything we know so far
Rivals, the steamy and scandal-filled Disney+ adaptation of Jilly Cooper's 1988 novel, took audiences by storm with its first season in October 2024. Set in the glamorous yet cutthroat world of 1980s British television, the series delivered drama, romance, and a gripping cliffhanger that left fans craving more. With Season 2 officially confirmed, here's everything we know so far. Release Date Speculation for Rivals Season 2 While Disney+ has not announced an official release date, production timelines offer clues. Filming for Season 2 began in May 2025, with a 12-episode run confirmed—four more episodes than Season 1. Based on the first season's timeline, which saw casting announcements in March 2023, filming from March to September 2023, and a release in October 2024, production typically takes about 18 months. Given this schedule, Rivals Season 2 is likely to premiere in late 2025 or early 2026. Some sources speculate a possible early 2026 release, depending on post-production demands. Fans should keep an eye on Disney+ and Hulu for official updates as filming progresses. Rivals Season 2 Expected Cast The good news for fans is that the entire main cast from Season 1 is confirmed to return, ensuring continuity for the beloved characters driving the drama. Here's who we can expect to see in Rutshire: Alex Hassell as Rupert Campbell-Black David Tennant as Lord Tony Baddingham Aidan Turner as Declan O'Hara Bella Maclean as Taggie O'Hara Nafessa Williams as Cameron Cook Danny Dyer as Freddie Jones Victoria Smurfit as Maud O'Hara Katherine Parkinson as Lizzie Vereker, alongside Oliver Chris as James Vereker. Claire Rushbrook as Lady Monica Baddingham Emily Atack as Sarah Stratton, Rufus Jones as Paul Stratton, Lisa McGrillis as Valerie Jones, Luke Pasqualino as Basil Baddingham, and Catriona Chandler as Caitlin O'Hara, all reprising their roles. Rivals Season 2 Potential Plot Rivals Season 1 covered roughly the first half of Jilly Cooper's novel, leaving plenty of material for Season 2 to complete the story. However, the show has already taken liberties with the source material, so expect a mix of book-inspired plots and original twists. Aman Shukla is a post-graduate in mass communication . A media enthusiast who has a strong hold on communication ,content writing and copy writing. Aman is currently working as journalist at
Daily Mail
22-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mail
Emily Atack reunites with Rivals co-stars including Danny Dyer and Alex Hassell as she shares snaps of cast for series two filming
Emily Atack has reunited with her Rivals co-stars Danny Dyer and Alex Hassell as she shared a behind-the-scenes look at filming of series two. The Disney+ drama, based on author Jilly Cooper's novel of the same name - premiered in October 2024 and was quickly greenlit for a second season. Disney+, Hulu, and cast members Nafessa Williams and Alex all revealed on Thursday that filming for the second instalment of the hit show had begun as they shared on-set snaps. And later that day, Emily joined in with the reunion snaps as she shared a carousel of sweet group pictures. Emily could be seen beaming while having a drink at the pub with her co-stars Alex, Danny, Luca Pasqualino and Rufus Jones. From A-list scandals and red carpet mishaps to exclusive pictures and viral moments, subscribe to the DailyMail's new Showbiz newsletter to stay in the loop. Meanwhile in another snap, Emily took a selfie as she strolled along the street with co-stars Alex, Aidan Turner, Gary Lamont and Hubert Burton. Emily shared a look at a table read for an episode of the series, as well as a Rivals 2 clapper board. She could be seen smiling in a glamorous snap as she posed alongside David Tennant and Nafessa. And an adorable snap showed a card written to Emily from author Jilly welcoming her back to the show. Back in December 2024, the renewal was confirmed and now a first look at the new series has been shared on social media. Disney+, Hulu, Nafessa and Alex all took to Instagram to post a shared set of pictures from the set of Rivals. In one snap Nafessa, Alex and Adrian can be seen posing for a picture surrounded by greenery. Nafessa - who plays Cameron Cook - rocked a red shirt and white wide leg trousers, while X actor Alex opted for a light pink polo shirt, white trousers and knee high brown boots. Emily shared a look at a table read for an episode of the series, as well as a Rivals 2 clapper board And an adorable snap showed a card written to Emily from author Jilly welcoming her back to the show Aidan, who has taken on the role of Declan O'Hara, wore a blue polo shirt, grey trousers and rocked a very impressive moustache. Actress Bella Maclean was all smiles as she held a clapperboard while cuddling up to a cute pooch. She plays Agatha Taggie O'Hara in the series. And the third picture sees Danny Dyer (Freddie Jones) and Lisa McGrillis (Valerie Jones) cosying up together in front of the camera. They captioned the post: 'Back on set and ready for more action. 'Season 2 of #Rivals is now in production. 'Stream season 1 on Hulu and with #HuluOnDisneyPlus.' Many fans rushed to the comments section to share their excitement. 'We're so ready ���� my favourite cast.' 'Cannot wait.' 'I'm up. I'm awake. I'm crying. I'm excited. ' 'We are so back baby! ' 'Oh my god… this is too exciting… get it film! Get it edited and get it out asap.' 'Yesssssss! I've just re-binged series 1 all over again.' Earlier this month Disney+ confirmed that Rivals will return for a second series after its huge success last year - and they have treated fans to an extra four episodes. Many have rushed to the comments section on the post to share their excitement at the upcoming second series The first series, which was eight episodes, became a huge hit and ended on a huge cliffhanger after David Tennant's character Lord Tony Baddingham was left for dead. Though the fate of Lord Baddingham appeared dire, it has now been confirmed that David will reprise his role in the upcoming second season in a major casting update. The streaming service has also confirmed that they have already started filming again, with fans set to be treated to 12 new episodes. Along with David's return, Alex Hassell will reprise his role as Rupert Campbell-Black and Aidan Turner will once again star as Declan O'Hara. Nafessa Williams will once again take on the role of Cameron Cook, while Bella Maclean will again play Taggie O'Hara and Emily Atack will return as Sarah Stratton. The likes of Katherine Parkinson, Danny Dyer, Claire Rushbrook, Catriona Chandler, Lisa McGrillis, Annabel Scholey and Luca Pacqalino will also be on the show. Rivals fans previously begged Disney+ for a second series of the saucy show after binge watching all it's eight episodes in a matter of days but were forced to wait months until the news was officially confirmed. Author and executive producer Dame Jilly Cooper said of the news: 'I'm utterly sex-static filming for the second season is upon us. 'It was magical working with Happy Prince and Disney+ on the first season and seeing everyone fall head over heels for my beloved characters. 'I'm delighted to be able to work with them again and for everyone to see what further mischief they all get up to!' Executive producers Dominic Treadwell-Collins and Alexander Lamb added: 'We are so excited to be returning to Rutshire for an extended stay of twelve episodes for season two of Rivals. 'It's very special to have the same team return in front of and behind the cameras and we cannot wait to share more of Jilly's world with our audience.' And Lee Mason, who is executive director of scripted content for Disney+, added: 'It's a real privilege to have this phenomenal team back together for season two of Rivals. 'From the exceptional cast, the remarkable creative team behind the camera – including the one and only Dame Jilly Cooper. Disney+ audiences are in for an absolute treat.. Rutshire here we come…'
The Irish Sun
22-05-2025
- Entertainment
- The Irish Sun
Rivals series two starts filming as cast share behind the scenes snap of Danny Dyer's return after BAFTA win
FILMING for Rivals series two has begun - as the cast shared a behind-the-scenes snap of Danny Dyer's return. The likes of , and a lso appear in the romp-filled series. Advertisement 3 Hit show Rivals has begun filming for series two Credit: Instagram 3 Based on Jilly Cooper's novel, Rivals debuted on Disney+ last year Credit: Instagram 3 Danny Dyer returns after his recent BAFTA win Credit: Instagram The smash-hit period drama, based on Jilly Cooper's 1988 novel, launched on Disney+ last year. New snaps show cast members back on set to film the second series, It comes as cast member Danny Dyer recently The actor, 47, received the gong for his work in Sky Max comedy Mr Bigstuff - marking his first BAFTA win. Advertisement Read more on Rivals Meanwhile, the star recently revealed he The second outing will comprise 12 episodes altogether - marking an increase of four. David Tennant, Aidan Turner, Katherine Parkinson, Alex Hassell and Nafessa Williams are all confirmed to be returning. Also coming back are Emily Atack, Rufus Jones, Oliver Chris, Victoria Smurfit and Advertisement Most read in News TV Following the original book, the first series of It saw long-held grudges bubble to the surface as characters vied for business and each others' affections in the Rivals fans convinced series two announcement video contains HUGE spoiler for next season after cliffhanger ending - did you spot it? Viewers tuned into the show in droves as they raved about the After the jaw-dropping cliffhanger ending, Advertisement The Sun Rivals: The Cast An ensemble of stars make up the huge cast of the hit Disney+ show Rivals. Victoria Smurfit - Maud O'Hara (Declan's wretched wife and a former actress) Danny Dyer - Freddie Jones (Self-made successful electronics businessman and resident in Rutshire) Rufus Jones - Paul Stratton (British MP going through a mid-life crisis) Author Dame Jilly Cooper said at the time: "Nearly 40 years after my novel Rivals was published, I've adored seeing the world fall in love with my beloved characters - Rutshire's Finest. Prince and Disney+ on the first season." She added: "I'm orgasmic with excitement and cannot wait for the return of my superhero Rupert Campbell-Black and the rest of the characters in season two!" Advertisement Rivals is available to stream on Disney+.
Daily Mail
22-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mail
Rivals cast kick off series two filming as they beam in behind-the-scenes pics from Disney+ set
Rivals fans will be happy to know that filming for series two has already begun. The period drama - which is based on author Jilly Cooper's novel of the same name - premiered in the UK on streaming service Disney+, as well as in the US on Hulu back in October 2024. Rivals became a huge hit with viewers and many were desperate to know if there would be a second series. Then back in December 2024, the renewal was confirmed and now a first look at the new series has been shared on social media. Disney+, Hulu, Nafessa Williams and Alex Hassell all took to Instagram to post a shared set of pictures from the set of Rivals. In one snap Nafessa, Alex and Adrian Turner can be seen posing for a picture surrounded by greenery. From A-list scandals and red carpet mishaps to exclusive pictures and viral moments, subscribe to the DailyMail's new Showbiz newsletter to stay in the loop. Nafessa - who plays Cameron Cook - rocked a red shirt and white wide leg trousers, while X actor Alex opted for a light pink polo shirt, white trousers and knee high brown boots. Adian, who has taken on the role of Declan O'Hara, wore a blue polo shirt, grey trousers and rocked a very impressive moustache. Actress Bella Maclean was all smiles as she held a clapperboard while cuddling up to a cute pooch. She plays Agatha Taggie O'Hara in the series. And the third picture sees Danny Dyer (Freddie Jones) and Lisa McGrillis (Valerie Jones) cosying up together in front of the camera. They captioned the post: 'Back on set and ready for more action. 'Season 2 of #Rivals is now in production. 'Stream season 1 on Hulu and with #HuluOnDisneyPlus.' Many fans rushed to the comments section to share their excitement. 'We're so ready ���� my favourite cast.' 'Cannot wait.' 'I'm up. I'm awake. I'm crying. I'm excited. ' 'We are so back baby! ' 'Oh my god… this is too exciting… get it film! Get it edited and get it out asap.' 'Yesssssss! I've just re-binged series 1 all over again.' Earlier this month Disney+ confirmed that Rivals will return for a second series after its huge success last year - and they have treated fans to an extra four episodes. The first series, which was eight episodes, became a huge hit and ended on a huge cliffhanger after David Tennant's character Lord Tony Baddingham was left for dead. Though the fate of Lord Baddingham appeared dire, it has now been confirmed that David will reprise his role in the upcoming second season in a major casting update. The streaming service has also confirmed that they have already started filming again, with fans set to be treated to 12 new episodes. Along with David's return, Alex Hassell will reprise his role as Rupert Campbell-Black and Aidan Turner will once again star as Declan O'Hara. Nafessa Williams will once again take on the role of Cameron Cook, while Bella Maclean will again play Taggie O'Hara and Emily Atack will return as Sarah Stratton. The likes of Katherine Parkinson, Danny Dyer, Claire Rushbrook, Catriona Chandler, Lisa McGrillis, Annabel Scholey and Luca Pacqalino will also be on the show. Rivals fans previously begged Disney+ for a second series of the saucy show after binge watching all it's eight episodes in a matter of days but were forced to wait months until the news was officially confirmed. Author and executive producer Dame Jilly Cooper said of the news: 'I'm utterly sex-static filming for the second season is upon us. 'It was magical working with Happy Prince and Disney+ on the first season and seeing everyone fall head over heels for my beloved characters. 'I'm delighted to be able to work with them again and for everyone to see what further mischief they all get up to!' Executive producers Dominic Treadwell-Collins and Alexander Lamb added: 'We are so excited to be returning to Rutshire for an extended stay of twelve episodes for season two of Rivals. 'It's very special to have the same team return in front of and behind the cameras and we cannot wait to share more of Jilly's world with our audience.' And Lee Mason, who is executive director of scripted content for Disney+, added: 'It's a real privilege to have this phenomenal team back together for season two of Rivals. 'From the exceptional cast, the remarkable creative team behind the camera – including the one and only Dame Jilly Cooper. Disney+ audiences are in for an absolute treat.. Rutshire here we come…' The story is set in 1986 and follows the cut throat world of television, including the tense rivalry between Rupert Campbell-Black and Lord Tony Baddingham.
