The Canadian-produced hockey series, “Heated Rivalry,” has added three new cast members to its lineup for the upcoming second season. The show, which gained international acclaim in its first season and launched the careers of lead actors Hudson Williams, Connor Storrie, and François Arnaud, has now welcomed Ukrainian-American actress Milla Jovovich, Canadian actor Kevin Zegers, and Canadian star Paul Gross to the cast.
Milla Jovovich, known for her roles in “Resident Evil” and “The Fifth Element,” joins the series alongside Kevin Zegers, recognized for his work in “Gossip Girl” and “Transamerica,” and Paul Gross, renowned for his roles in “Due South” and the films “Men With Brooms” and “Passchendaele.”
The series, inspired by Nova Scotia author Rachel Reid’s “Game Changers” books, follows the clandestine relationship between two rival hockey players, Shane Hollander and Ilya Rozanov. 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, a therapist supporting Rozanov.
In addition to the new cast members, returning actors from Season 1 include Robbie G.K., Sophie Nélisse, Christina Chang, and Dylan Walsh. The show has also enlisted a lineup of Canadian talent for the upcoming season, including Charlie Gillespie, Daniel Diemer, Emily Hampshire, and Priyanka.
Emily Hampshire, known for her role in “Schitt’s Creek,” expressed her excitement about joining the cast and praised the series creator and director, Jacob Tierney. She emphasized the significant impact of “Heated Rivalry” and compared its success to that of “Schitt’s Creek.”
While “Heated Rivalry” did not qualify for the Primetime Emmys this year, the show excelled at the Canadian Screen Awards, winning multiple accolades. Season 2 of the series has commenced filming and is scheduled to premiere on Crave in Spring 2027.