Actor Dylan Walsh accidentally revealed that the hit hockey romance streaming series Heated Rivalry could be filming a dozen new episodes, sparking widespread fan speculation across social media about multiple seasons in development, according to statements reviewed by CBC News.
Dylan Walsh Triggers Production Speculation via Cameo
Dylan Walsh, a 62-year-old American actor who plays the father of hockey player Shane Hollander on the show, discussed the production schedule in a personalized video recorded on the celebrity platform Cameo. TikTok user Savannah Leigh reposted the clip after receiving it as a birthday gift, according to her account details. In the footage, Walsh said he was preparing to return to Canada to film additional episodes.
“Anyway, [I’m] getting ready to go back up to Canada and shoot some more episodes. So, I think we’re doing 12 this time,” Walsh said in the video.
Following the online spread of the video, Walsh apologized and paused his Cameo account. He stated to CBC News that he was speaking off the cuff and should not have speculated about the production schedule or episode count. A representative for the show has not replied to CBC News inquiries regarding the comments.
Comparing Episode Counts and Creator Plans
The reported 12-episode count marks a significant shift from the inaugural run of the series. The first season of Heated Rivalry consisted of six episodes, streaming on Bell Media’s Crave platform after its release in November 2025. Series creator and director Jacob Tierney previously told the Los Angeles Times that he prefers keeping seasons concise rather than expanding episode orders.
“I don’t need to do 10. I would always rather tighten the belt than get loosey-goosey,” Tierney said in the interview.
Fans on social media quickly latched onto Walsh’s comments, theorizing that the production team might be filming the second and a third unannounced season simultaneously. Heated Rivalry is adapted from the six-book Game Changers series by Canadian author Rachel Reid, focusing on the secret romance between rival hockey players Shane Hollander, played by Canadian actor Hudson Williams, and Iyla Rozanov, played by American actor Connor Storrie.
Did you know? Heated Rivalry earned critical acclaim upon release, picking up a Peabody Award and a Canadian Screen Award for best drama series before Crave renewed it for a second season.
Cast Expansions for Season 2 in Toronto and Montreal
Production for the second season is underway in Toronto and Montreal, according to the industry website Production List. Crave Canada announced five new cast members joining the ensemble via an Instagram post. Emily Hampshire will play Vanessa, Edvin Ryding will play Luca Haas, Robert Naylor will play Wyatt Hayes, Sabrina Jalees will play Farah Jalili, and Priyanka will play Tarek.
“I’m so excited to be a part of the Heated Rivalry universe,” Priyanka commented on the casting announcement. Series author Reid also welcomed the additions, writing, “The coolest cast!”
The production has recently drawn intense public attention outside of casting news. Series creator Tierney recently appealed to fans to give production crews space at filming locations. Meanwhile, fans previously rushed to Canadian Tire stores to purchase branded reusable tote bags after Hudson Williams was photographed carrying one in Toronto.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes was the first season of Heated Rivalry?
The first season of the show consisted of six episodes.
Where is Heated Rivalry filmed?
Filming for the second season is primarily taking place in Toronto and Montreal, according to Production List.
Who are the main characters in the series?
The series centers on rival hockey players Shane Hollander, played by Hudson Williams, and Iyla Rozanov, played by Connor Storrie.
What are your theories on the upcoming season of Heated Rivalry? Drop a comment below and subscribe to our newsletter for more entertainment updates.