Tue Dec 23 09:20:00 UTC 2025: FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

“Heated Rivalry” Ignites Passion on HBO Max and Crave, Renewed for Second Season

LOS ANGELES, CA – The steamy LGBTQ+ hockey romance series “Heated Rivalry,” based on Rachel Reid’s “Game Changers” novels, has taken streaming platforms by storm, captivating audiences with its compelling story of rivals-turned-lovers. The show, created by Jacob Tierney, has been officially renewed for a second season due to overwhelming popularity.

“Heated Rivalry” stars Hudson Williams as Shane Hollander, the captain of the Montreal Metros, and Connor Storrie as Ilya Rozanov, the captain of the Boston Raiders. Their on-ice rivalry masks a secret, passionate relationship that has fans hooked. Williams and Storrie acknowledge being surprised by the show’s wide appeal.

The series also features François Arnaud as Scott Hunter, a closeted captain of the New York Admirals, and Robbie G.K. as Kip Grady, Scott’s boyfriend. Callan Potter plays Hayden Pike, Shane’s teammate, while Christina Chang and Dylan Walsh portray Shane’s parents, Yuna and David Hollander. Kolton Stewart plays Carter Vaughn, Scott’s teammate and friend, and Sophie Nélisse is Rose Landry, a famous actress who romances Shane, a character inspired by Jennifer Lawrence. The cast is rounded out by Ksenia Daniela Kharlamova as Svetlana, Ilya’s friend and sometime lover, and Yaroslav Poverlo as Ilya’s father, Grigori Rozanov.

Entertainment Weekly recently released a detailed character guide for the show, offering insight into the actors and their roles. The actors praised intimacy coordinator Chala Hunter for creating a safe and supportive environment for the more intimate scenes.

New episodes of “Heated Rivalry” are released weekly on Fridays on HBO Max and Crave. Stay tuned for further announcements regarding the second season’s premiere date.

Read More