Emily Atack, known for her breakout role as Charlotte “Big Jugs” in The Inbetweeners, has stepped into a bold new chapter in her career, stripping naked for her latest project, Rivals, a raunchy Disney+ series set in the 1980s. The actress, who has been candid about her struggles with being typecast after her Inbetweeners role, described the experience as “liberating” after 16 years of dealing with the lingering reputation tied to her former character.
In Rivals, based on Jilly Cooper’s iconic novel, Atack stars alongside Claire Rushbrook, bringing to life the drama and rivalry of the fiercely competitive world of independent television. The series, known for its provocative and boundary-pushing scenes, explores themes of power, ambition, and sexuality. Atack’s performance has already garnered attention, with many praising her for taking on such a daring role.
A Warning to Viewers
As the show premiered, Atack took to social media to give her fans a light-hearted warning about the explicit content. Sharing behind-the-scenes footage, the actress teased her fans, acknowledging the “raunchy” nature of the series and encouraging viewers to brace themselves for some of her most daring scenes yet.
Working with a ‘Naughty School Girl’ Vibe
Atack and Rushbrook opened up about their on-screen chemistry and the playful atmosphere on set. Both actresses enjoyed delving into the naughtiness of the 1980s setting, with Atack comparing their dynamic to that of “naughty school girls” as they navigated the raunchier moments in the show. Jilly Cooper’s bold writing, full of wit and risqué situations, served as an exciting challenge for the cast, pushing them out of their comfort zones.
From Comedy Star to Leading Lady
For Atack, Rivals represents a major transformation in her career. After years of being remembered for her comedic roles, she now commands the screen with confidence and complexity. With this performance, she is showing fans and critics alike that she is much more than the characters she played in her earlier years.
Her newfound confidence and willingness to embrace more complex, adult roles mark a significant milestone for Atack as she continues to evolve as an actress, shedding the comedic persona of Charlotte and embracing a more versatile career.