Rivals favourites Danny Dyer and Katherine Parkinson reveal Lizzie and Freddie romance is set to “go beyond sweet” in season 2

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Okay, so this show, it’s set in this town called Rutshire, and basically everyone is keeping secrets, especially when it comes to their relationships. But it’s funny, because Freddie and Lizzie – they’re supposed to be these scandalous cheaters – are actually fan favorites! People really root for them, even though, on paper, they’re totally in the wrong. It’s a weird dynamic, but it totally works for me as a viewer.

I was completely captivated by these two in season one! They both felt so lost after being hurt by their partners, and it was beautiful to watch them find comfort in each other. Now, at the beginning of season two, I’m really invested in seeing how they’re dealing with all the complicated emotions – trying to figure out where their loyalties lie and how to cope with the hurt.

Danny Dyer recently shared that season two will explore his character’s relationship on a much deeper level. He told TopMob that while their connection was just scratching the surface in the first season, this time around they’re really digging into the complexities and delivering a truly compelling storyline. He described the way the relationship unfolds as ‘quite fascinating’.

Freddie visits Lizzie for advice on what to do about Rupert, and they enjoy a pleasant afternoon together while discussing it.

The day becomes filled with simple pleasures – potato waffles, fish fingers, and quality time with Lizzie’s kids – and it’s obvious that they truly care for each other.

Katherine Parkinson hinted that the relationship between the characters will evolve in the fourth episode, moving past simple sweetness. She described them as being very hesitant and careful with each other.

Dyer also questioned whether people can cope with the aftermath of infidelity. He compared it to an affair with children and a partner involved, asking how someone reconciles the momentary passion with the lasting consequences and feelings of guilt or discomfort it creates.

Parkinson explained that people handle the guilt of an affair – and its impact on a family – differently. He believes Lizzie and Freddie are particularly sensitive and will be deeply affected by it, more so than many others.

It’s frustrating because you can see they have a real connection and deserve to be together, but they both feel very guilty due to their strong moral compasses.

Season two of Rivals sees the competition for the Central South West TV license intensify, as the rivalry between Corinium and Venturer escalates into increasingly risky territory.

Tony Baddingham is now more determined and ruthless than ever before. He’s systematically working to destroy his opponents, using damaging rumors and manipulating people he knows to stay in control.

As the extravagant 1980s unfold, the private lives of those living in Rutshire begin to fall apart. Driven by their goals, marriages break down, secret relationships endanger families, and old secrets resurface, causing major drama.

When fierce competition drives people to their limits, friendships and relationships suffer as everyone strives to win. But at what point does the fight for victory become too much?

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You can now watch “Rivals” on Disney+. The second season will begin streaming on Friday, May 15, 2026. A Disney+ subscription starts at just £5.99 per month.

Don’t miss out! Add Rivals to your watchlist on the TopMob: What to Watch app. Download it today for daily TV recommendations, exclusive features, and more.

Authors

Morgan CormackDrama Writer

Morgan Cormack writes about TV and streaming drama for TopMob. Before that, she was an Entertainment Writer at Stylist. She also has experience in content marketing, freelancing, and holds a degree in English Literature.

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2026-05-16 14:34