The hockey romance phenomenon isn’t cooling off anytime soon. Heated Rivalry is officially set to return for Season 2, with creator and showrunner Jacob Tierney confirming that filming begins this summer and the new season is targeting an April 2027 premiere on HBO Max and Crave.
The renewal comes after a breakout first season that became Crave’s biggest original debut and one of HBO Max’s most talked-about romance series. Adapted from Rachel Reid’s bestselling Game Changers novels, the show follows the secret relationship between rival hockey superstars Shane Hollander (Hudson Williams) and Ilya Rozanov (Connor Storrie). What begins as a chance hookup evolves into a years-long romance complicated by professional competition, public scrutiny and the realities of life in elite sports. Both Williams and Storrie are set to reprise their roles.
Season 1 quickly developed a passionate fanbase thanks to its blend of sports drama, emotional storytelling and LGBTQ+ representation. The series earned strong critical reviews, with Rotten Tomatoes scores exceeding 90%, while social media helped turn Shane and Ilya into one of television’s most beloved couples. The early Season 2 renewal sparked celebrations across the fandom, with viewers flooding Reddit and other platforms after the announcement.
The upcoming season will adapt Reid’s novel The Long Game, continuing Shane and Ilya’s story after the events of the first season. The series will follow the pair as they navigate the next stage of their relationship while balancing careers in professional hockey.
Speaking on CBS Mornings, Tierney said the team is already writing the new season and working to bring it back “as soon as humanly possible.” Executive producer Brendan Brady echoed that enthusiasm, encouraging fans to “enjoy the yearn” while waiting for the next chapter.
When Season 2 arrives, it will once again be guided by Tierney, whose previous credits include Letterkenny and Shoresy. Alongside returning leads Williams and Storrie, the ensemble is expected to include François Arnaud and several familiar faces from the expanding Game Changers universe.