Rivals, starring Danny Dyer, slips in unexpected EastEnders reference

Rivals, starring Danny Dyer, slips in unexpected EastEnders reference

As a lifelong fan of both soaps and cinema, I was absolutely thrilled to discover the delightful EastEnders reference tucked away in the sixth episode of Rivals. As someone who has spent countless hours poring over scripts from both Albert Square and Walford West, it was a joy to see the DNA of my beloved soap operas seep into this fresh and captivating series.


*Warning: This article contains minor spoilers for Rivals episode 6.*

It’s no secret that the show Rivals is full of soap-opera drama, but what might surprise fans is that the latest Disney Plus series also includes an appropriate nod to the long-running British soap opera EastEnders. This is a delightful treat for devoted soap opera enthusiasts.

In this sixth episode of the drama, inspired by Jilly Cooper’s book with the same title, we embark on a thrilling journey to Spain. There, we find characters Cameron Cook (played by Nafessa Williams) and Rupert Campbell-Black (portrayed by Alex Hassell), who happen to meet each other at an awards gathering they both attend in Spain.

As the two travelers embark on their individual adventures and gradually reveal more about themselves, it’s only upon setting foot in England that we come across an unexpected nod to EastEnders, much like an Easter egg hidden within the story.

Upon returning to the Corinium headquarters, Cameron steps into a meeting led by Tony (David Tennant), which is being conducted under the network’s latest motto: “Corinium Cares.

Rivals, starring Danny Dyer, slips in unexpected EastEnders reference

As I settle down, I jump right into sharing my fresh idea without delay, expressing: “I’ve found a solution for our Declan dilemma. I noticed a significant number of Brits residing in Spain, and I’m envisioning an enticing, glamorous narrative centered around the lives of expats in Malaga.

Looking at everyone, she remarks, “It’s like EastEnders… with a sun-kissed touch.” There’s a moment of quiet before Tony chimes in, “Innovative thoughts such as yours are why Corinium remains the leader.

Absolutely, the series titled “Rivals” takes place in 1986, which was only a year following the debut of the iconic British soap opera “EastEnders” in 1985, making it an appropriate reference to the cherished east London-set show.

As a devoted fan, I must admit that Rivals carries the essence and genes of an outstanding soap opera. Given Dominic Treadwell-Collins’ reputation, especially from his work on EastEnders, it comes as no surprise to me that this episode turned out to be so compelling.

In his role as a story producer, Treadwell-Collins became renowned for bringing characters such as Ronnie (Samantha Womack) and Roxy Mitchell (Rita Simons) into Albert Square. He also developed the plotline involving Syed Masood (Marc Elliott) and Christian Clarke (John Partridge).

In essence, we can affirmatively conclude that the foundations of soap operas can be traced back to Rivals, especially considering the casting of Danny Dyer, famed for his character Mick Carter on EastEnders, in the upcoming series as well.

In the series “Rivals,” actor Dyer plays the role of millionaire Freddie Jones, a part he shines in. However, there’s always the prospect that Dyer might rejoin the long-running soap opera following his departure during the 2022 Christmas special.

“Since we could be occupied with our next season of ‘Rivals’, please keep in mind that I might not be available for either ‘Walford’ or ‘Rivals’. However, if it’s feasible, I’d love to find a way to manage both.

Starting this coming Friday, 18th October 2024, you’ll be able to stream “Rivals” on Disney Plus. Subscribe to Disney Plus now for just £7.99 per month or £79.90 annually to enjoy it!

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2024-10-18 15:35