The series “Heated Rivalry” is adding more talent to its cast as it gears up for the second season, with three new stars joining the Canadian-made hockey drama. The show, produced by Bell Media’s Crave streaming service, gained worldwide fame in its initial six-episode run and boosted the careers of its lead actors: Hudson Williams, Connor Storrie, and François Arnaud.
The new additions to the cast were unveiled recently and include:
– Milla Jovovich, a Ukrainian-American actress known for her roles in the “Resident Evil” franchise and “The Fifth Element.”
– Kevin Zegers, hailing from Woodstock, Ontario, who has appeared in shows like “Gossip Girl” and movies such as “Transamerica.”
– Paul Gross, a prominent figure in Canadian film, TV, and theater, recognized for his work in “Due South” and films like “Men With Brooms” and “Passchendaele.”
The series, inspired by Nova Scotia author Rachel Reid’s “Game Changers” books, centers on the clandestine relationship between two competitive ice hockey players, Shane Hollander and Ilya Rozanov. Paul Gross is set to portray Roger Crowell, the commissioner of the hockey league, while Kevin Zegers will take on the role of Coach Wiebe, heading the Ottawa Centaurs team where Rozanov plays. Milla Jovovich will play Dr. Galina Molchalina, a therapist supporting Rozanov.
In a social media post, author Rachel Reid expressed excitement about the new cast members. Additionally, the production has confirmed the return of Season 1 actors Robbie G.K., Sophie Nélisse, Christina Chang, and Dylan Walsh. The upcoming season will also feature a lineup of Canadian talents, including Charlie Gillespie, Daniel Diemer, Emily Hampshire, and Priyanka.
Emily Hampshire, a star from “Schitt’s Creek,” praised the show’s creator and director Jacob Tierney, emphasizing the immense success of “Heated Rivalry.” Despite not being eligible for this year’s Primetime Emmy Awards, the series has garnered recognition at the Canadian Screen Awards, winning several accolades.
The filming of the second season commenced on August 17 and is scheduled to premiere on Crave in Spring 2027.