Rivals viewers give their verdict on Disney+'s racy romance starring David Tennant and Aidan Turner

The highly anticipated Disney+ adaptation of Jilly Cooper's fast-paced romance Rivals is finally here – and fans have wasted no time in diving into the star-studded glossy series.

Set in the ruthless world of 1980s independent television, the drama follows the rivalry between notorious womanizer Rupert Campbell-Black (Alex Hassell) and TV boss Lord Tony Baddingham (David Tennant).

It's safe to say that the first few episodes were well received by eager viewers, who took to social media to praise the entertaining show.

One person wrote: “I watched the first episode of #Rivals with the biggest smile on my face. perfection. The lead actors attract a lot of attention, but the female cast is full of gems – Victoria Smurfit, Katherine Parkinson, Lisa McGrillis, Nafessa Williams, Claire Rushbrook, Maggie Steed. Stunning,” while another added: “#Rivals everything I expected and more!” 80s hair, music and debauchery! I love it!”

© Robert Viglasky

A third fan remarked: “So I started watching #Rivals and what can I say? It's phenomenal! TThe actors, the soundtrack, the locations – everything is perfect!“

Other viewers compared the series to Jilly's acclaimed novel, with one person writing: “#Rivals is brilliant! It's exactly how I imagined it would be when I read the book many years ago,” while another added: “I so love #Rivals on #DisneyPlus.” I'm glad it didn't disappoint, Because it’s my favorite book ever (and no, I’m not embarrassed to admit that).”

© Robert Viglasky

For those who haven't seen the series, it's set in the fictional county of Rutshire, where journalist Declan O'Hara has moved with his family after taking a new job at Corinium Television under the leadership of Lord Baddingham. Meanwhile, local MP and recently divorced Rupert Campbell-Black, who is feuding with the power-hungry TV boss, happens to be the O'Hara's new neighbor.

The official synopsis reads: “Set against the backdrop of the drama, excess and shocking antics of the power-hungry social elite of 1980s England, Rivals 1986 dives headfirst into the ruthless world of independent television.”

© Robert Viglasky

Emily Atack, who plays Sarah Stratton, the deputy prime minister's ambitious wife, narrated HELLO! that the cast had “so much fun” filming the show. “It's the best job I've ever done” she said. “I was very lucky to be there and be a part of it.” As fun and loud as it was, we took our roles very seriously. Jilly Cooper was on set the whole time, making sure everything went well and she was really happy. When you feel like you’re doing justice to a character, it’s an incredible feeling.”

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Meanwhile, Claire Rushbrook, who plays aristocrat Lady Monica Baddingham, added: “We really laughed. They are the best actors there are, with the best script and a brilliant crew and a budget that can really be seen on screen.” So the wind is blowing at your back when it comes to being happy about it. It might sound like we were just a bunch of exuberant people having fun, but I think it's important to say that we were able to celebrate each other We knew we would be riding the wave of such an incredible, high-quality performance.”

Rivals is available to stream on Disney+.