The Canadian-produced hockey drama series, “Heated Rivalry,” has added three new stars to its cast for the upcoming second season. The show gained global popularity in its debut season, leading to career boosts for lead actors Hudson Williams, Connor Storrie, and François Arnaud. The new additions to the cast announced this week are Milla Jovovich, known for her roles in the “Resident Evil” franchise and “The Fifth Element,” Kevin Zegers from “Gossip Girl” and “Transamerica,” and Paul Gross, recognized for his work in “Due South” and as a writer and director of “Men With Brooms” and “Passchendaele.”
The series, inspired by Nova Scotia author Rachel Reid’s “Game Changers” books, follows the secret relationship between two rival hockey players, Shane Hollander and Ilya Rozanov. In the upcoming season, Paul Gross will portray hockey league commissioner Roger Crowell, Kevin Zegers will play Coach Wiebe of the Ottawa Centaurs, and Milla Jovovich will take on the role of Dr. Galina Molchalina, a therapist supporting Rozanov.
Additionally, returning to their roles for Season 2 are actors 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 in various roles.
Emily Hampshire, a star from “Schitt’s Creek,” expressed her excitement about joining the cast and highlighted the success of “Heated Rivalry.” The series, although ineligible for the Primetime Emmys this year, has received critical acclaim and dominated the Canadian Screen Awards with 13 wins, including Best Drama and Best Lead Performer for Hudson Williams. The shooting for the second season began on August 17, with a scheduled premiere on Crave in Spring 2027.