Sexism in 1980s TV: Analyzing Jilly Cooper’s Hit Series Rivals

Dame Jilly Cooper, an 87-year-old author behind the beloved Rivals series, is feeling nostalgic about the good old days when flirting was fun and carefree. Her 1988 “bonkbuster” Rivals, set in the fictional county of Rutshire, has taken the TV world by storm both in the UK and across the pond.

The TV adaptation of her steamy novel has been a hit, with a second series already in the works. Fans can’t wait to see more of the charismatic Rupert Campbell-Black, played by Alex Hassell. The unresolved TV franchise battle between Campbell-Black and Lord Baddingham, played by David Tennant, has viewers on the edge of their seats.

While younger audiences might not be familiar with the concept of TV franchises, the popularity of Rivals speaks volumes. The appeal lies in the romantic English countryside setting, the big hair, and the guilt-free sexism of the characters in Rutshire.

The show captures the essence of the 1980s with Hollywood actors flirting shamelessly and scandalous outdoor activities like “naked tennis.” Dame Jilly acknowledges that some of the characters from her heyday would not fare well in today’s world and might even end up in prison.

Rivals is not just about sex and scandal. It serves as a reflection of how British television has evolved over the past five decades. Cooper draws inspiration from her swinging ’60s media days to create satirical characters in the world of TV executives and personalities. With its blend of nostalgia, romance, and drama, Rivals continues to captivate audiences on both sides of the Atlantic.