Dark arts

Rupert Graves joins Julia Stiles to investigate an international conspiracy as glossy drama Riviera switches to Italy and Argentina

- CAREN CLARK, RICHARD MCCLURE

With stunning locations and high-octane twists and turns, the last two series of Sky Atlantic’s Riviera have offered a glorious glimpse of the heady but troubled lives of the super-wealthy.

Now, as the lavish drama returns for a new eight-part run, the gorgeous settings, and the heart-stopping action have been stepped up another gear.

In the opener, intrepid art expert Georgina Ryland, played by Hollywood star Julia Stiles, has fled her dangerous life in the South of France for a quieter role as a lecturer on the recovery of stolen art. But a deadly threat beckons when she is approached by charismatic Gabriel Hirsch (Sherlock’s Rupert Graves), who also works in art restitution and needs her help to investigate a dubious Picasso in Venice.

Here, Stiles, 39, and Graves, 57, give us the exclusive low-down on what to expect from the new series…

What keeps you returning to Riviera, Julia, and what was the appeal of joining, Rupert?

Stiles It’s because Georgina is reckless and runs towards danger. And it’s a privilege to be the lead in a sophisticated drama. We try to make it an entertaining, escapist show that’s still grounded in a grown-up sensibility. You have beautiful settings but underneath are corruption, lies, and deceit.

Graves Yes, this doesn’t shy away from the dysfunction of that super-rich life. It has an