Rivals Emerges as Hulu's Premier Drama Following Flawless Second Season

Published May 15, 2026, 5:42 PM EDT

Greg, a Lead TV Writer & Critic at Screen Rant, brings his industry expertise to this insightful analysis. With over 2800 articles published—including weekly recommendations and in-depth reviews—Greg’s background spans development roles at ABC Television and Lawrence Bender Productions, plus extensive broadcast experience at NBC, TNT, and ESPN. Based in Greater Boston, he offers a uniquely informed perspective on the latest streaming hits.

Summary
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A landmark review highlights Rivals as one of Hulu’s finest offerings—a series distinguished by its exceptional cast, gripping narrative, and near-perfect 97% RT score after a stellar 95% debut. Led by David Tennant’s magnetic performance as the calculating Lord Tony Baddingham, the show thrives on high-stakes corporate rivalries, personal vendettas, and richly layered character dynamics set against 1980s British high society. Co-stars Hayley Atwell, Rupert Everett, and Aidan Turner elevate the drama with nuanced portrayals, blending ambition, intrigue, and emotional depth.

Rivals: A Masterclass in Elite Storytelling

Tennant’s Tony Baddingham commands attention as a ruthless media mogul whose empire-building ambitions ignite fierce competition with Rupert Campbell-Black (Hassell)—a former Olympian turned politician. Their bitter rivalry fuels a web of schemes, betrayals, and power struggles that mirror real-world corporate machinations while delivering high drama. Meanwhile, subplots involving extramarital affairs and social climbing amplify tension, cementing the series’ reputation as both a soap opera spectacle and prestige television.

Ensemble Brilliance Drives the Show

The supporting cast shines brightly, anchoring the narrative’s complexity. David Tennant delivers a tour de force as the villainous Tony, balancing menace and vulnerability with effortless charisma. Rupert Everett’s Rupert offers a compelling foil—charming yet calculating—while Aidan Turner’s conflicted journalist adds moral ambiguity. Bella Maclean and others round out the ensemble, ensuring every scene crackles with energy.

Comparisons to Succession and Your Friends & Neighbors highlight Rivals’s blend of opulence and dark humor, making it essential viewing for fans of ambitious storytelling. With all ten episodes streaming now on Hulu and Disney+, this series represents a career-defining achievement for Tennant—comparable to his iconic work as the Doctor. Its universal acclaim and addictive pacing make it a weekend binge staple, promising both intellectual stimulation and visceral entertainment.

Where to Watch Rivals: Available immediately on Hulu and Disney+.

Rating: 10/10

Rated 9.5/10 by critics and audiences alike, Rivals transcends genre conventions to deliver a modern classic. Don’t miss this masterpiece—stream now and join the conversation!