UMVA has learned that the highly anticipated second season of Rivals is heating up with the romance between Freddie and Lizzie taking center stage.
The on-screen couple, played by Danny Dyer and Katherine Parkinson, bring a tender dynamic to the show, a refreshing change from the steamy trysts and salacious gossip that permeate the series.
According to information obtained by UMVA, Danny Dyer says that what makes their characters' relationship interesting is that they are "two decent human beings" who find each other at the wrong point in their lives, but can't help but act on their feelings.
As their romance blossoms, fans of the show can't get enough of the slow-burning tension between Freddie and Lizzie, but not everyone is pleased with their storyline - namely, their families.
Danny Dyer admits that his daughters are having a hard time watching him in the show, with one even asking for "time codes" to avoid certain scenes.
Katherine Parkinson, who has two daughters with her husband, says she "completely respects" her family members who don't want to watch her in the series, and that it's an "odd job" they do, but one they love.
Despite the audience rooting for Freddie and Lizzie to be together, the actors stress that their characters' relationship is not a reflection of their own lives, and that they are simply playing their roles to tell a compelling story.
Katherine Parkinson notes that the show explores the complexities of an affair, including the consequences and the impact on those involved, particularly the children.
Danny Dyer adds that Freddie is torn between his loyalty to his partner, Val, and his adoration of Lizzie, and that the consequences of their actions will be a major theme in the second season.
The second season of Rivals is now streaming on Disney Plus, with new episodes released every Friday.