Author of Rivals told writers to stop making her ‘macho men’ cry
Author of Rivals Told Writers to Stop Making Her 'Macho Men' Cry
Author of Rivals told writers to stop - Dame Jilly Cooper, the celebrated novelist, expressed her frustration with the creative team of Rivals, instructing them to halt the emotional outbursts of her beloved characters. This sentiment was shared by Laura Wade, the writer and executive producer of the show, during a recent appearance at the Hay Festival. Wade described the experience of working with Cooper as a privilege, highlighting the unique dynamic between the author and the adaptation team.
Dame Jilly, known for her literary achievements, crafted a series of novels that captured the essence of the English countryside and its affluent inhabitants. The Rutshire Chronicles, her debut work, introduced readers to the glamorous yet scandalous lives of the elite, blending romance, drama, and social commentary. This series became a cornerstone of her career, establishing her as a prominent voice in contemporary fiction.
Her second book, Rivals, marked a significant milestone in the 11-novel series, published in 1988. The story revolved around the intricate relationships and rivalries among the aristocratic class, featuring a cast of complex characters. The novel's recent transformation into a Disney+ TV series in 2024 brought it to a new generation of viewers, breathing fresh life into its narrative and solidifying its place in popular culture.
A Unique Relationship with the Screenplay
Wade emphasized the distinct collaboration between Cooper and the production team, noting that the author maintained a relaxed approach to the adaptation process. Despite her fame, Cooper was not rigid in her demands, allowing the creative team considerable freedom. However, she had one notable critique that left an impression on the cast.
“We were so lucky to have Jilly… You would expect someone to be quite strict about what you do with their key characters, and she really wasn’t,” Wade remarked. “She would tell us, if I was making Rupert (Campbell-Black) cry too often, that was one of her favourites – ‘stop making my macho men cry all the time’.”
The quote reveals Cooper’s affection for her characters, particularly the rugged, emotionally driven figures she often portrayed. Wade’s account illustrates how the author’s personality influenced the show’s tone, blending humor with heartfelt moments. This balance was key to the series’ appeal, resonating with both longtime fans and new audiences.
Cooper’s literary style was characterized by vivid storytelling and rich character development, which translated seamlessly into the visual medium. Her ability to weave intricate plots with a touch of wit and charm made her novels a staple of the literary world. The Rivals adaptation, in particular, showcased the depth of her work, translating the nuances of her prose into compelling screen narratives.
An Unexpected Passing and Tributes
Dame Jilly Cooper passed away unexpectedly in October 2023 at the age of 88, following an accident at home. Her death sent shockwaves through the literary community, with many expressing grief over the loss of a trailblazer. Queen Camilla, who had a personal connection to Cooper, led the tributes, calling her a "legend" and praising her wit and compassion.
“May her hereafter be filled with impossibly handsome men and devoted dogs,” the Queen added, reflecting on Cooper’s enduring legacy. Her words captured the essence of the author’s persona, blending humor with warmth in a way that resonated with fans and critics alike.
Cooper’s influence extended beyond her novels, as she was actively involved in the production of the Rivals series. She served as an executive producer, ensuring that her vision for the characters and storylines was preserved. Her dedication to the project was evident in the attention she gave to every detail, even during the final stages of filming.
A Sparkling Presence in the Industry
Victoria Smurfit, who portrayed Maud O’Hara in the show, shared a poignant memory of the cast’s reaction to Cooper’s sudden passing. “I came back (from a break) and Eliza Mellor, our extraordinary on-set producer, was in the room and everything about her was devastated,” Smurfit recalled. “I remember walking in and going, ‘Oh God, someone’s died’.”
“It is a testament to Jilly’s sparkle and her champagne-soaked soul of heavenly delight that at 88 there was not one iota of me that thought it might be her,” Smurfit continued. “She’d been across all the episodes, she’d been across season three, she’d been across everything, and she dropped and rolled… And now she gets to have fun up there.”
Smurfit’s recollection highlights the deep respect and admiration the cast held for Cooper. Her presence on set was described as infectious, bringing energy and passion to every scene. The emotional impact of her death was palpable, with the cast and crew united in mourning. Cooper’s legacy, however, remains vibrant, as her work continues to inspire and entertain.
Cooper’s career was marked by both literary acclaim and a deep connection to the world of television. Her novels, which sold over 11 million copies in the UK alone, were a testament to her storytelling prowess. The success of the Rivals adaptation further underscored her ability to bridge the gap between print and screen, ensuring her characters and narratives lived on in new forms.
As the series continued to gain traction, the memories of Cooper’s guidance and humor stayed with the cast. Her critiques, though sometimes stern, were delivered with a lightness that made them memorable. The show’s creators often referenced her feedback as a source of creative inspiration, even in the face of challenges.
Cooper’s life and work were a blend of tradition and innovation, reflecting her ability to adapt while maintaining her distinct voice. From her early days as an author and journalist to her later roles as a producer and cultural icon, she left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry. Her passing is a loss, but her legacy endures through the stories she created and the people she inspired.