Heated Rivalry: Meet the Cast of the New HBO Max Series
In the world of romantic dramas, Heated Rivalry has quickly become a major talking point. Premiering on Crave and HBO Max, this fiery series is adapted from the celebrated novels by author Rachel Reid. With just a portion of its first season aired, the show has already captivated audiences, introducing a fresh lineup of talent that fans are eager to know more about.
Here’s a closer look at the main stars of Heated Rivalry and what makes them shine!
Hudson Williams — Shane Hollander
Leading the cast is Hudson Williams, who portrays Shane Hollander, a promising Canadian hockey player. While Hudson is a new face in Hollywood, his career didn’t begin recently; he has already made strides behind the scenes as a writer and director. The 24-year-old has a rich portfolio that includes various short films, showcasing his multifaceted talent.
In 2024, Hudson co-wrote, co-directed, and starred in the short film Rancid. His journey in the film industry started with short films and television appearances, featuring in projects like Brim Reaper, Teresa’s Choice, and Snow Angel. Born in 2001, Hudson has proven himself to be a rising star worth watching.
Connor Storrie — Ilya Rozanov
Connor Storrie shines next as Ilya Rozanov. Despite his authentic portrayal of a Russian character, Connor is indeed a native of Texas. At 25, he balances roles as an actor, director, and writer, showcasing his versatility in the entertainment industry. His notable appearances include a role in the upcoming film Joker: Folie à Deux.
Diving deep into his character, Connor expressed a fascination with Russian culture, which inspired him to master the accent. In a 2025 interview with Etalk, he stated, “It’s really enlightening to play a character that is as different from me as possible. It’s fun and allows me to discover new aspects of myself.”
François Arnaud — Scott Hunter
Adding depth to the cast is François Arnaud as Scott Hunter. The Montreal native is well-known for his captivating roles in popular series such as The Borgias and UnReal. Since 2009, François has built a commendable career with appearances in various projects, including Schitt’s Creek and Yellowjackets.
Open about his personal life, François identifies as bisexual and is in a relationship with fellow actor Marc Bendavid. In a conversation with Variety, he articulated that actors should not feel obligated to disclose personal aspects, like sexuality, while pursuing roles, emphasizing the importance of separating professional and personal identities.
Robbie G.K. — Kip Grady
Robbie G.K. rounds out the main cast as Kip Grady, who stands out as the only non-hockey player in the series. Robbie plays a charming barista and graduate student, winning hearts with his portrayal of Scott’s boyfriend. Originally from Ontario, the 29-year-old has a diverse acting portfolio that includes roles in productions such as Utopia Falls and Antisocial.
What fans may not know is that Robbie is rooted in musical theatre. His love for acting blossomed at the age of 13 with a performance in The Sound of Music, demonstrating his extensive capabilities beyond just screen acting.
Conclusion
As Heated Rivalry continues to unfold, the ensemble cast brings a vibrant dynamic to the series, captivating fans with their performances and personal backstories. With each actor bringing their unique flair and talent, it’s clear that this show will have much more to offer as the season progresses. Keep an eye on these rising stars, as they are sure to make waves in Hollywood!

