Rivals star Alex Hassell has revealed how years of professional setbacks left him questioning his acting ability before landing the role of Rupert Campbell-Black
A film project directed by George Clooney failed to become the career springboard he had expected, deepening his insecurities
Playing the swaggering Tory and former Olympic show jumper has since helped Hassell reassess his self-worth
He also recalled guidance from author Jilly Cooper on making Rupert’s pursuit of Taggie, played by Bella Maclean, more uncompromising
Rivals returns on 11 November.