The lead actors from the Canadian hockey-themed series “Heated Rivalry” are set to participate in the upcoming Olympics. Hudson Williams and Connor Storrie have been selected as torchbearers for the Milan Cortina Games in February. Williams, hailing from Kelowna, B.C., portrays Shane Hollander while Storrie, who is American, takes on the role of Ilya Rozanov in the Crave-produced show.
The characters Hollander and Rozanov, depicted as top hockey players and on-ice rivals struggling with their off-ice emotions, have garnered attention in the series. “Heated Rivalry” is scheduled to debut in Italy on HBO Max on February 1, coinciding with the Milan Cortina Games. Canadian viewers can continue enjoying the show on Crave.
With just 16 days remaining until the Olympic opening ceremony on February 6, the torch’s journey is in progress. Following its remarkable success on streaming platforms in Canada and the United States, “Heated Rivalry” has been renewed for a second season.
The series, consisting of six episodes, is inspired by the gay hockey romance book series “Game Changers” by Canadian author Rachel Reid. Canadian writer Jacob Tierney adapted the screenplay for Crave. Tierney, known for his work on the sitcom “Letterkenny” and as an executive producer and director on the hockey comedy “Shoresy,” has played a significant role in the show’s development.
CBC’s Emma Weller explores the reception of “Heated Rivalry” among Ottawa’s 2SLGBTQ+ hockey community. The show has been well-received, sparking discussions and resonating with viewers.
The success of “Heated Rivalry” underscores its impact, attracting a diverse audience and generating buzz within the hockey and LGBTQ+ communities.