Rivals star Lisa McGrillis calls Jilly Cooper 'filthy' during chat on Sunday Brunch

Rivals actress Lisa McGrillis described Dame Jilly Cooper as 'naughty and filthy' while discussing her latest role on Disney+'s steamy romance series based on Cooper's hit novel.

The show, which delves into the fierce 1980s independent television scene in the made-up Rutshire, sees MP and notorious ladies' man Rupert Campbell-Black against Corinium Television's suave boss Tony Baddingham.

After the series premiered on Friday (October 18), Lisa, who plays the role of Valerie Jones, appeared on Channel 4's with hosts and .

When asked about her experience working with the legendary author, Lisa quipped that Jilly Cooper was "filthy and fun".

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Kicking off the conversation, Tim remarked: "Lisa it has been a big week for you. Rivals is out and we have all watched it and think it's brilliant."

A photo of the star-studded cast at a recent premiere flashed up, prompting Tim to inquire: "Where was that? " Lisa responded with a laugh, "It's quite a tasty cast. I'm trying to remember where that was."

She humorously added: "I definitely had a few campaigns and as the evening went on they kept flowing so I can't really remember when that was taken, which is quite embarrassing.", reports .

She went on to say: "But it was a very good party and it seems to have gone down well I guess." Curious, Tim probed further: "What is Jilly like? ".

Lisa gushed: "She is an icon. She is extraordinary and she is twinkly, naughty, filthy and fun." The room erupted in laughter as she continued: "She wouldn't mind me saying that and she is brilliant."

Later on the sofa, Tim asked further about the success of the drama and how the series takes a turn in the latter episodes.

Tim said: "You’ve said that it does turn a little bit dark.”, as Lisa commented: “Yes it does. It’s so fun and vibrant then you get to episode 5 and you take the audience to a dark place. It really shines a light on the audience.”

Lisa added: “It is quite raunchy, I have to say.”

The eight-part series has already won over fans, who claim to be 'hooked'. Lisa is joined by an all-star cast, including David Tennant, Aidan Turner, , and Danny Dyer, alongside Katherine Parkinson, Oliver Chris, and Claire Rushbrook.

Fans were quick to share their reactions to the series, praising the talented cast. One viewer tweeted: "'Loving this new series #Rivals Amazing cast as well".

Another fan raved: "Well Rivals is a welcome surprise, it's fantastic! Cast is mega and the soundtrack is banging! ".

A third fan posted: "Time to get stuck into Rivals, looks good and a brilliant cast" Another fan commented: "Whoever cast this show has the same taste as me."

Sunday Brunch airs on Channel 4 from 9.30am