AceShowbiz - David Tennant is set to return in the highly anticipated second season of the period drama series Rivals, which is already earning praise from critics with a rare 100% Rotten Tomatoes score based on six reviews. The series originally debuted in 2024 with a strong 95% rating, and the new season continues to build on that success.

David Tennant has long been a dominant force in television, known for his diverse roles ranging from the Tenth Doctor in Doctor Who to the demon Crowley in Good Omens. In Rivals, he takes on the role of Tony Baddingham, a ruthless television executive whose quest for revenge drives much of the show’s intense drama. The character’s survival was left uncertain at the end of season one after a violent confrontation, but the season two trailer confirms that Tony survives and returns with a vendetta, especially after his company loses a critical franchise bid.

The series, based on Jill Cooper’s 1988 novel, embraces its reputation as a trashy “bonkbuster” with plenty of backstabbing, campy drama, and high-stakes romance. While season two is not considered quite as flawless as the first, critics have highlighted the performances of the ensemble cast as a major strength. Notably, Alex Russell shines as Rupert Campbell-Black, whose portrayal of a charming yet troubled Casanova is complicated by the reappearance of his ex-wife Helen, played by Hayley Atwell.

The romantic tensions continue to deepen as Rupert struggles to honor a pact to stay away from Taggie, with Aidan Turner reprising his role as Declan O’Hara. However, the couple’s rekindled intimacy at the end of season one sets up a tangled dynamic for the new episodes.

Season two of Rivals marks a notable expansion for the series, with the episode count increasing from eight to twelve. Critics suggest this additional time allows for a richer exploration of characters and storylines, giving the show more depth and nuance. The series’ success on Disney+ was evident early on, as it broke into the platform’s top 10 most-watched shows according to Reelgood data and earned significant recognition during awards season.

Among the accolades, Rivals won the International Emmy Award for Best Drama Series in 2025. Additionally, David Tennant himself received a nomination for Leading Actor at the British Academy Television Awards, underscoring the critical acclaim for his work on the show.

Rivals season two will also introduce several new cast members, including Rupert Everett, Maxim Ays, Bobby Lockwood, Eliot Salt, Amanda Lawrence, Olive Tennant, Amelie Child-Villiers, and Oliver Dench. Directing duties are shared by Elliot Hegarty, Dee Koppang O’Leary, and Alexandra Brodski, each bringing their own style to the production.

While Rivals remains a major focus for David Tennant, he also continues to reprise other notable roles. Most notably, he will return as Crowley in the final 90-minute episode of Good Omens season three, scheduled for release on May 13, 2026. However, despite ongoing television projects such as Time season three and Hide, he is not expected to return to Doctor Who in the near future.

The first three episodes of Rivals season two are set to premiere on May 15, 2026, simultaneously on Hulu and Disney+. Fans and critics alike are eager to see how the series will continue to evolve with its blend of drama, romance, and ruthless ambition.

With its perfect Rotten Tomatoes score and strong ensemble cast, Rivals season two promises to maintain the momentum of its award-winning debut and deliver compelling television drama throughout its expanded run.