Heated Rivalry Season 2 Confirmed, Premiering in Spring 2027

New cast additions, plot details, and release timeline for the highly anticipated second season of the hit LGBTQ+ sports drama series.

Apr. 18, 2026 at 10:34am

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An abstract close-up image of hockey sticks in a dramatic, high-contrast lighting setup, conveying the intensity and passion of the sport.The second season of "Heated Rivalry" promises to deliver more high-stakes hockey action and simmering on-screen chemistry between its lead characters.Ottawa Today

The critically acclaimed LGBTQ+ sports drama series "Heated Rivalry" has officially been renewed for a second season, with production set to begin in August 2026 and a targeted premiere in April or Spring 2027. The new season will adapt the sequel novel "The Long Game" and continue the story of hockey captains Shane Hollander and Ilya Rozanov, exploring themes of mental health, coming out, and their blossoming relationship. Casting is underway for several new supporting characters, including a potential homophobic villain. Showrunner Jacob Tierney has promised more steamy romance, on-ice action, and emotional depth as the series expands its ensemble.

Why it matters

"Heated Rivalry" has become a breakout hit, blending sports drama, queer storytelling, and a passionate fanbase. The renewal and continued adaptation of the popular book series signals the show's growing popularity and the increasing demand for authentic LGBTQ+ representation in mainstream media. As the characters navigate the challenges of their relationship and careers, the series tackles important social issues around mental health and homophobia in professional sports.

The details

Season 2 will pick up a few years after the events of Season 1, with Shane Hollander and Ilya Rozanov's relationship now exclusive but still kept secret. Ilya will move to Ottawa to be closer to Shane, impacting his own hockey career. The new season will explore Ilya's mental health struggles, linked to his mother's suicide, as well as the pressures of coming out publicly. Showrunner Jacob Tierney has confirmed that a key storyline will be Shane coming out to his team. Other potential plot points include a near-death plane incident, a public proposal or engagement, and plans for the future. While the series will continue to center Shane and Ilya's romance, it will also expand the ensemble with new supporting characters, some of whom may represent homophobic antagonists.

  • In November 2025, Season 1 (6 episodes) premiered on Crave (Canada) and HBO Max (US), becoming a major success.
  • Filming and production of Season 2 is set to begin in August/summer 2026.
  • Season 2 is expected to premiere in April 2027 (or Spring 2027), as confirmed by creator Jacob Tierney.

The players

Jacob Tierney

The creator and showrunner of "Heated Rivalry", who has overseen the adaptation of the "Game Changers" book series for television.

Hudson Williams

The actor portraying Shane Hollander, the captain of the Montreal Metros hockey team and one of the lead characters.

Connor Storrie

The actor portraying Ilya Rozanov, formerly of the Boston Raiders and now a key part of the show's central romance.

Rachel Reid

The author of the "Game Changers" book series, on which the "Heated Rivalry" television show is based.

Crave

The Canadian streaming platform that premiered Season 1 of "Heated Rivalry" and will continue to host the series.

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What they’re saying

“The timeline is working out, but the writing is taking longer than it did for Season 1. There could possibly be fewer episodes than originally planned for Season 2, or Season 2 will consist of more content than originally expected.”

— Jacob Tierney, Creator and Showrunner

“The focus remains squarely on Shane and Ilya, with new characters expanding the world.”

— Jacob Tierney, Creator and Showrunner

What’s next

Casting calls are underway for at least eight new roles, including potential homophobic villain archetypes, as the show expands its ensemble. Fans will have to wait until Spring 2027 for the highly anticipated second season premiere.

The takeaway

"Heated Rivalry" has become a breakout hit for its authentic portrayal of a same-sex romance in the world of professional sports. The renewal and continued adaptation of the popular book series demonstrates the growing demand for LGBTQ+ representation in mainstream media, as the show tackles important social issues while delivering a captivating sports drama and steamy romance.