Jilly Cooper's raunchy novels possible adaptations for TV series after Rivals success

Jilly Cooper's death this month devastated fans around the world earlier this month. Dame Jilly was known as the queen of the bonkbuster and sold over 10 million books, including the famous Rivals and Riders, in the UK alone. Jilly's bereft children, Felix and Emily, issued a statement to confirm the news.

They said: "It is with great sadness that we announce the death of Dame Jilly Cooper, DBE who died on Sunday morning, after a fall, at the age of 88." Her family went on to say: "Mum, was the shining light in all of our lives. Her love for all of her family and friends knew no bounds. Her unexpected death has come as a complete shock.

"We are so proud of everything she achieved in her life and can’t begin to imagine life without her infectious smile and laughter all around us."

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Last year, Jilly's novels became popular again when Rivals was released on Disney+ for fans to enjoy.

Rivals was the big hit of 2024, and starred EastEnders legend Danny Dyer as well as actress Emily Atack. On its launch day, two million viewers tuned in and it has been renewed for a second series.

It was based on the 1988 novel of the same name, which was the second in the Rutshire Chronicles series. The first series, of eight instalments, has become Disney +’s most successful general entertainment premiere ever, in the UK.

Earlier this year, Jilly said of filming for the second series: "I’m utterly sex-static filming for the second season is upon us. It was magical working on the first season and seeing everyone fall head over heels for my beloved characters.

"I’m delighted to be able to work with them again and for everyone to see what further mischief they all get up to.”

And now, it has been revealed that former EastEnders producer Dominic Treadwell-Collins has the rights to adapt the Rutshire Chronicles - which includes Riders, Polo and The Man Who Made Husbands Jealous.

Dominic and Disney+ were reportedly motivated by Jilly's family's response after her death. As reported by The Sun, the family rejected any suggestion that filming on the second series should stop out of respect.

Her family reportedly said: “The show must go on.”

Meanwhile, Disney+ scripted content boss Lee Mason promised that viewers were in for “an absolute treat” with the second run.

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