A new Canadian sports romance television series, “Heated Rivalry,” premiered on Crave on November 28, 2025, following a preview screening at the Image+Nation LGBTQ+ Film Festival in Montreal, Quebec, on November 23, 2025. The series, created, written, and directed by Jacob Tierney, is based on the Game Changers novel series by Rachel Reid.
A Story of Rivalry and Romance
“Heated Rivalry” centers on Shane Hollander, played by Hudson Williams, and Ilya Rozanov, played by Connor Storrie, two professional hockey players involved in a long-term, secret romantic relationship. They compete for rival teams, adding complexity to their personal lives and careers.
Production Details and Cast
The series features an ensemble cast including François Arnaud, Robbie G.K., Christina Chang, Ksenia Daniela Kharlamova, Sophie Nélisse, and Dylan Walsh. Accent Aigu Entertainment and Bell Media produced “Heated Rivalry,” utilizing a dual-camera setup during filming. Episodes run between 43 and 55 minutes in length.
Critical Reception and Future Prospects
As of February 28, 2026, “Heated Rivalry” has received an IMDb rating of 8.9/10. A second season is indicated by the episode guide on IMDb, suggesting the series could continue to explore the complexities of the characters’ relationship and careers. Further seasons may delve deeper into the supporting characters, such as Scott Hunter, played by François Arnaud, and Cliff Marleau, played by Franco Lo Presti.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who created “Heated Rivalry”?
Jacob Tierney created, wrote, and directed “Heated Rivalry.”
Where does the series take place?
While filmed primarily in Ontario, the series represents locations such as New York and Moscow.
Who are the two main characters?
The two main characters are Shane Hollander, played by Hudson Williams, and Ilya Rozanov, played by Connor Storrie.
How will the pressures of professional sports impact the characters’ relationship as the series progresses?
