Heated Rivalry is undeniably the hottest show currently captivating television audiences, thanks to its riveting blend of hockey, romance, and drama. Following its premiere, the series experienced an explosive rise in popularity, leading Crave and HBO Max to announce a renewal for a second season just after four episodes aired.
The show, based on Rachel Reid’s novel of the same name and her Game Changers book series, dives into the intense rivalry between two talented hockey players, Shane Hollander, played by Hudson Williams, and Ilya Rozanov, portrayed by Connor Storrie. However, the narrative goes beyond ice hockey, exploring the complexities of their evolving relationship over nearly a decade, starting from their late teen years and transitioning into early adulthood.
Hudson Williams, who brings Shane to life, was born on February 13, 2001, making him 24 years old at the series’ debut in November 2025. A native of Kamloops, British Columbia, Williams honed his craft at Langara College, graduating with an acting degree in 2020. Before his breakout role, he had already made a name for himself as a creator, writer, and director in several short films, along with appearing in shows such as Allegiance and Tracker.
On the other hand, Connor Storrie, who plays the confident Ilya Rozanov, was born on February 22, 2000, at 25 years old during the show’s airing. Although his character has Russian roots, Storrie is originally from Odessa, Texas, where he was also a dedicated gymnast in his younger years. With previous roles in films like Headless Horseman and Joker: Folie à Deux, Storrie managed to balance his acting aspirations while working 40 hours per week at a restaurant during the audition process for Heated Rivalry.
Adding depth to the cast, François Arnaud plays Scott Hunter, another pivotal character in the series. Born on July 5, 1985, the Montreal native is 40 years old, which intriguingly aligns closely with his character’s age as an American hockey player. Arnaud, recognized for his performances in notable productions such as The Borgias and Yellowjackets, openly identifies as bisexual and is currently in a relationship with fellow actor Marc Bendavid.
Lastly, Robbie G.K., who plays Kip Grady, rounds out this dynamic ensemble. The 29-year-old actor, born on July 25, 1996, is slightly older than his character, who is depicted as a 26-year-old smoothie barista and aspiring artist in the series. G.K.’s previous credits include appearances in shows like The Next Step and Utopia Falls, showcasing his versatile acting talent.
With an engaging plot and a talented cast, Heated Rivalry is poised to continue its successful run, bringing further intrigue and drama to audiences in upcoming seasons. The rising stardom of its leads adds an exciting dimension, as viewers eagerly anticipate how their characters’ journeys will unfold in future episodes.