The Canadian-produced hockey series, “Heated Rivalry,” has added three new actors to its cast for the upcoming second season, raising the excitement levels among fans. The show, a hit in its initial six-episode run, gained international acclaim when HBO picked it up for the U.S. and global markets, propelling the careers of its lead actors, Hudson Williams, Connor Storrie, and François Arnaud.
The fresh faces joining the roster include Milla Jovovich, known for her roles in the “Resident Evil” franchise and “The Fifth Element,” Kevin Zegers, recognized for his work in “Gossip Girl” and “Transamerica,” and Paul Gross, a prominent figure in Canadian film and television, famous for his roles in “Due South,” “Men With Brooms,” and “Passchendaele,” which he also wrote and directed.
The series, inspired by Nova Scotia author Rachel Reid’s “Game Changers” books, delves into the clandestine romance between two rival hockey players, Shane Hollander and Ilya Rozanov, portrayed by Williams and Storrie, respectively. Notably, Gross will play the role of hockey league commissioner Roger Crowell, while Zegers will embody Coach Wiebe of the Ottawa Centaurs, Rozanov’s team in the upcoming season. Jovovich is set to portray Dr. Galina Molchalina, a therapist supporting Rozanov.
Moreover, the new season will see familiar faces like Robbie G.K., Sophie Nélisse, Christina Chang, and Dylan Walsh reprising their roles. The show has also introduced a diverse array of Canadian talent, including Charlie Gillespie, Daniel Diemer, Emily Hampshire, and Priyanka, each bringing a unique flavor to the storyline.
Hampshire, in an interview, expressed her joy in reuniting with series creator Jacob Tierney for “Heated Rivalry,” emphasizing the show’s growing popularity reminiscent of “Schitt’s Creek.” Although not eligible for this year’s Primetime Emmys, the series dominated the Canadian Screen Awards, with production already underway for the second season slated for a Spring 2027 release on Crave.