The series “Heated Rivalry” is adding more talent to its cast for the upcoming second season. The Canadian-produced hockey drama gained worldwide popularity in its debut season with lead actors Hudson Williams, Connor Storrie, and François Arnaud. The new additions to the cast announced recently are Ukrainian-American actress Milla Jovovich, Kevin Zegers, and Paul Gross.
Milla Jovovich, known for her roles in “Resident Evil” and “The Fifth Element,” joins the series alongside Kevin Zegers, who has appeared in “Gossip Girl” and “Transamerica,” and Paul Gross, famous for his work in “Due South” and “Men With Brooms.”
The series, inspired by Rachel Reid’s “Game Changers” books, centers on the clandestine romance between two rival hockey players, Shane Hollander (Williams) and Ilya Rozanov (Storrie). Paul Gross will portray hockey league commissioner Roger Crowell, Kevin Zegers will take on the role of Coach Wiebe, and Milla Jovovich will play Dr. Galina Molchalina.
Additionally, returning actors from Season 1 include Robbie G.K., Sophie Nélisse, Christina Chang, and Dylan Walsh. The new season will also feature Canadian talents like Charlie Gillespie, Daniel Diemer, Emily Hampshire, and Priyanka.
Emily Hampshire, a star from “Schitt’s Creek,” expressed her excitement about joining the cast and working with series creator Jacob Tierney. She mentioned the immense success of “Heated Rivalry,” comparing it to the popularity of “Schitt’s Creek” that swept major comedy categories at the 2020 Primetime Emmy Awards.
Despite its acclaim, “Heated Rivalry” is ineligible for this year’s Primetime Emmys. However, it dominated the Canadian Screen Awards, winning 13 awards, including Best Drama and Best Lead Performer for Hudson Williams. The shooting for the second season began on August 17 and is scheduled to premiere on Crave in Spring 2027.