Heated Rivalry Cast Hudson Williams Connor Storrie Lead Steamy Hockey Romance Series

A new television series is scoring big with audiences. “Heated Rivalry” premiered on November 28, 2025. The show is a sports romance about two rival hockey captains.

It stars Hudson Williams and Connor Storrie as the leads. The six-episode series is based on Rachel Reid’s popular novels. It is available on HBO Max and Crave.

Star-Studded Cast Brings Intense Chemistry to Screen

Hudson Williams plays Shane Hollander. He is the captain of the Montreal Metros. Connor Storrie portrays his rival, Ilya Rozanov of the Boston Raiders.

The actors have generated significant buzz for their on-screen dynamic. Creator Jacob Tierney has praised their authentic chemistry. This chemistry is central to the show’s steamy narrative.

The supporting cast adds considerable depth. François Arnaud plays another team captain, Scott Hunter. Christina Chang and Dylan Walsh portray Shane’s parents.

Sophie Nélisse and Ksenia Daniela Kharlamova fill key roles. The ensemble creates a believable world around the central romance. According to Reuters, the casting process was meticulous.

Production and Story Details Behind the Hit Show

The series is a Canadian production from Bell Media. Filming occurred in Toronto and Montreal during spring 2025. This gives the show an authentic hockey atmosphere.

It adapts Reid’s “Game Changers” book series. The author served as a consulting producer. This helped ensure the story stayed true to its source material.

The plot follows Shane and Ilya’s secret relationship. They are fierce competitors on the ice. Off the ice, they navigate a complex and hidden romance.

Their story explores pressure, identity, and love. The conflict between public image and private desire drives the drama. It is a fresh take on the sports genre.

The “Heated Rivalry” cast has successfully translated a beloved literary romance to television, creating must-watch drama that resonates far beyond the hockey rink.

Thought you’d like to know

Where can I watch Heated Rivalry?

You can watch it on HBO Max in the United States and Australia. In Canada, it is streaming exclusively on the Crave platform. New episodes are released weekly.

Is the chemistry between the leads real?

The actors have a very convincing on-screen dynamic. Creator Jacob Tierney has stated their chemistry was evident from the first auditions. Their performances are a major highlight of the series.

How many episodes are in the season?

The first season has six episodes in total. The first two episodes premiered together on November 28. The remaining four episodes are released one per week.

Is the series based on a book?

Yes, it is based on Rachel Reid’s “Game Changers” romance novel series. The show specifically adapts storylines from the second and sixth books. Reid was involved as a producer.

Will there be a second season?

A second season has not been officially announced yet. The decision likely depends on the viewership numbers for this first season. Fans are certainly hoping for more.