The ensemble for the TV series “Heated Rivalry” is expanding with the addition of three new actors for its upcoming season. The show, produced by Bell Media’s Crave streaming platform, gained worldwide acclaim during its debut season, securing international distribution through HBO and propelling the careers of its lead actors – Hudson Williams, Connor Storrie, and François Arnaud.
Recently revealed cast members for the upcoming season include Milla Jovovich, known for her roles in the “Resident Evil” franchise and “The Fifth Element,” Kevin Zegers from “Gossip Girl” and “Transamerica,” and Paul Gross, recognized for his work on “Due South” and the films “Men With Brooms” and “Passchendaele.”
Nova Scotia author Rachel Reid, whose books inspired the series, expressed excitement over the new additions to the cast. The show revolves around the clandestine relationship between two rival ice hockey players, Shane Hollander and Ilya Rozanov, portrayed by Williams and Storrie, respectively.
Gross is slated to play hockey league commissioner Roger Crowell, while Zegers will take on the role of Coach Wiebe, the head of the Ottawa Centaurs team. Jovovich will portray Dr. Galina Molchalina, a therapist who aids Rozanov.
Additionally, it was revealed that actors from the first season, such as Robbie G.K., Sophie Nélisse, Christina Chang, and Dylan Walsh, will be reprising their roles. The new season will also feature Canadian talents like Charlie Gillespie, Daniel Diemer, Emily Hampshire, and Priyanka.
The show’s creator, Jacob Tierney, shared that filming for the second season has commenced, with the premiere scheduled for Spring 2027 on Crave. Despite missing out on Emmy eligibility this year, “Heated Rivalry” triumphed at the Canadian Screen Awards, clinching multiple accolades, including best drama and a best lead performer award for Williams.
