Two fresh faces have been revealed for the upcoming Season 2 of the popular hockey-themed series, “Heated Rivalry,” on Crave. Canadian actor Daniel Diemer, known for his role as Tyson in the TV series “Percy Jackson and the Olympians,” will take on the character of hockey player Ryan Price. Joining him is Welsh actor Shaheen Jafargholi, known for his appearance in the HBO show “War,” who will portray musician Fabian Salah, the love interest of Ryan.
The characters Ryan and Fabian are the central figures in Rachel Reid’s bestselling hockey romance novel series “Game Changers,” specifically in the third installment titled “Tough Guy.” The story revolves around Ryan, a professional hockey enforcer, who, upon being traded to the Toronto team, discovers the city’s gay village. During his exploration, he reunites with Fabian, an aspiring musician with whom he shared a near-kiss in high school. Despite the years gone by, their undeniable chemistry resurfaces. However, a potential future together may require Ryan to bid farewell to his hockey career.
Jacob Tierney, the writer, and Brendan Brady, the producer, expressed their excitement about the casting choices, emphasizing the distinct energy that Daniel and Shaheen bring to the characters. Season 1 of the series adapted the first two books of Reid’s series, “Game Changer” and “Heated Rivalry.”
The upcoming Season 2 of “Heated Rivalry” will continue the journey of Shane Hollander and Ilya Rozanov, former hockey rivals turned lovers from Reid’s novel “The Long Game,” with Hudson Williams and Connor Storrie reprising their leading roles. Additionally, the new season will incorporate the narratives of Troy Barrett, a hockey player traded to Ilya’s new team, and Harris Dover, a social media manager, from the fifth book in the series, “Role Model.”
The casting announcements for the second season have sparked discussion among fans, particularly concerning body diversity. Justice Smith is set to portray Harris, while Charlie Gillespie, known for his role in “Julie and the Phantoms,” will play Troy. Notable additions to the cast include Emily Hampshire from “Schitt’s Creek” and drag queen Priyanka.
The eagerly awaited Season 2 of “Heated Rivalry” is scheduled to premiere in the spring of 2027.