Kamloops actor Hudson Williams has garnered significant attention in the entertainment world thanks to his breakout role in the hit series, Heated Rivalry, which has captivated audiences globally. In this steamy adaptation of Rachel Reid’s 2019 novel, Williams portrays Shane Hollander, a professional hockey player navigating a complex secret romance with his rival, Ilya Rozanov, played by Connor Storrie.
Since its premiere on November 28, Heated Rivalry has rapidly climbed the charts, becoming Crave’s most popular series and hitting record viewership numbers both in Canada and beyond. The show’s success has been underscored by its growth, with viewership increasing nearly 400 percent in its first week alone. Following this impressive debut, Crave wasted no time, renewing the series for a second season even before the first had fully aired.
The series, which has sparked a passionate fanbase focused on its queer relationship narrative, has also secured distribution deals outside North America, including partnerships with Sky in New Zealand and Movistar Plus+ in Spain. Fans and critics alike have praised the show for its strong character development, rich storytelling, and the dynamics that resonate with viewers.
Williams, a Sa-Hali secondary graduate, reflected on his roots in the Kamloops area during a recent GQ interview, describing it as a blend of contrasting lifestyles. He shared his journey from high school acting classes to pursuing a film arts program at Langara College, followed by honing his craft through various roles and short film projects in Vancouver.
With the immense success of Heated Rivalry, Williams is set to make his late-night television debut on The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon, marking a significant milestone in his rising career. According to Justin Stockman, VP of content and programming at Bell Media, the series showcases the exceptional storytelling capabilities of Canadian creators, further highlighting Williams’s role in bringing this narrative to life.
As the series continues to gain traction, the future looks bright for both Williams and the story that has enchanted audiences worldwide.