There’s been no more surprising a breakout hit for Disney in the past few months thanRivals. Based onDame Jilly Cooper’s sophomore novel of theRutshire Chroniclesseries,Rivalshas catapulted to success with its raunchy brand of raucous drama that has had millions enthralled worldwide.This success is thanks in no small part to a cast bursting at the seams with British talent, from the ever-brilliantAidan Turnerto many people’s favorite Time Lord,David Tennant. However, one ofRivals' own - and a British legend in his own right - has now been confirmed to be taking on an altogether different task with his latest project.
FormerEastEnderandRivals' Freddie Jones,Danny Dyer, has now confirmed viaThe Sunthat he is set to star in a one-man project that he is already comparing toColin Firth’sPhone Booth. Dyer said, “I can’t talk too much about it. It’s a really mad concept. I’m trying to push myself now that I’m known as sort of Marlon Brando in the acting world because of Rivals, you know.” He continued, “Even though I’ve been acting for so long anyway, this is something that is going to be a real test for me. But I had to have a very, very in-depth medical for insurance reasons.” Dyer then added, “I’m the only one in this film. It’s only one character. Just me. I won’t go too into it, but it’s a bit like Phone Booth with Colin Farrell. It’s quite a clever idea. And because I’m the only actor, I had two doctors waiting at my door.”
‘Rivals’ is a Thrilling, Lustful Watch
FollowingRivals' instant success in late 2024, the series wasrenewed for a second outingin a move that, once upon a time, many might not have seen coming. Thankfully, the show proved popular enough to warrant a second visit to this barbaric 1980s rivalry, with thesexually charged, weaving taleearning a huge 95% on review aggregatorRotten Tomatoes. This strong critical reception is shared by Collider’sJeff Ewing, who said in hisreview of the series:
“As much as the 1980s was an era of unbridled lust, power, and privilege, so, too, doesRivalsgleefully parade its characters' vices and use them as continual sources for drama. These are characters who happily indulge urges with a devil-may-care attitude (though they’re not static, and do grow), with the audience able to comfortably await the inevitable fallout. It makes fora fun, thrilling watch, and it’s backed by strong and charismatic performers who add enough complexity to avoid any dramatic ruts. It may take a moment to link up with certain characters, and for interwoven setups to start paying off in satisfying ways, but the ride is charming enough, makingRivalsa love letter to extravagance and its perils worth tuning in to.”
Rivals' Danny Dyer is set to star in a one-man project. you may catch the highly-rated series right now on Hulu.
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