Tue Dec 02 07:10:00 UTC 2025: ## “Heated Rivalry” Stars Ignite Chemistry in HBO Max’s New Hockey Drama
Los Angeles, CA – HBO Max’s new series, “Heated Rivalry,” is making waves with its intense romance between rival hockey players Shane Hollander and Ilya Rozanov, played by Hudson Williams and Connor Storrie. In a recent interview with Out, the actors and showrunner Jacob Tierney discussed the casting process, revealing the secret ingredient to their on-screen heat: undeniable chemistry.
According to Williams, his chemistry test with Storrie was so intense that he told Tierney, “The other guy was good, but Connor felt like he was going to pin me down and f— me.” The quote, which Storrie heard for the first time during the interview, solidified Tierney’s decision to cast the pair.
Tierney emphasized the importance of finding actors who played well together, stating, “This show lives and dies with them.” Both Williams and Storrie resonated with their characters immediately. Williams said he “fell in love” with Shane after reading just a few audition scenes, while Storrie enjoyed the opportunity to explore Ilya’s complex personality and learn the Russian language.
“Heated Rivalry,” based on Rachel Reid’s popular book series, releases new episodes every Friday on HBO Max.
First Piper 