Bristol television studio welcomes The Queen to Disney+'s Rivals set for royal visit
The Queen has visited the set of a popular Disney+ series at a television studio in Bristol.
Her Majesty completed a behind-the-scenes tour of the Rivals set at The Bottle Yard Studios in Whitchurch during yesterday’s (Monday, December 9) visit.
Her Majesty observed filming and met various members of the production team as well as lead cast members including Alex Hassell (Rupert Campbell Black), Bella Maclean (Taggie O’Hara), David Tennant (Tony Baddingham), Nafessa Williams (Cameron Cook), Victoria Smurfitt (Maud O’Hara) and Oliver Chris (James Vereker).
A first look of the new ‘Master Dog’ set was revealed with Her Majesty getting to meet four of Rutshire’s finest canines, as well as stepping into the iconic Bar Sinister and the O’Hara family’s Priory Kitchen.
The Queen also learnt how the Rivals production team has provided a boost to the creative industries in the South West, providing training and opportunities for young people from the region.
A visit to the Costume Department showcased the outfits and designs celebrating the 1980s style and fashion of the era, led by Ray Holman, Costume Designer.
Rivals author Dame Jilly Cooper passed away in October this year, but members of her family were present during the tour, as they celebrated the cultural impact of the legendry author.
Rivals will return to Disney+ in 2026.