An executive at Bell Media has expressed strong interest in creating a special Heated Rivalry bonus episode to be released before the show’s second season. Justin Stockman, the company’s Vice-President of Content Development, confirmed the idea is being discussed to provide fans with more content during the expected wait for new episodes.
The Executive’s Comments on a Special Episode
The idea for a standalone Heated Rivalry bonus episode came directly from a senior executive at the company that produces the show. In a recent interview, Justin Stockman laid out the possibility while emphasizing that the creative team’s process must be respected.
“We’re going to see what’s feasible,” Justin Stockman told the Toronto Star. “If [showrunner Jacob Tierney] can find a way to make the source material work in a way that gets us something sooner or something special, I’m sure he will. I would love to have this back for the holidays next year, but that likely is not going to happen. We can’t rush the process. We won’t be able to repeat the magic if we push him.”
Stockman’s comments make it clear that any Heated Rivalry bonus episode would only happen if showrunner Jacob Tierney believes he can craft a story that fits naturally within the series. The goal is to offer fans something meaningful without forcing the production schedule.
Showrunner Jacob Tierney’s Current Focus
While the network is interested in a bonus episode, the final decision rests with the show’s creator. Jacob Tierney is currently writing the second season and has been open about not wanting to rush the creative process, despite the show’s massive popularity.
Tierney acknowledged the incredible fan response but stressed the importance of focusing on the story.
“This isn’t what any of us expected and I’m endlessly grateful for it. But it’s the kind of noise that I have to drown out to make the next two seasons,” Tierney said. “I have to keep trusting myself. I have to keep doing what I did in the first place. That’s the way you’re going to get a good season two.”
This indicates that while a Heated Rivalry bonus episode is a topic of discussion, Tierney’s primary commitment is to delivering a high-quality second season. He has mentioned that actors Connor Storrie and Hudson Williams are signed on for three seasons, pointing to a long-term plan for the series.
What Could a Bonus Episode Be About?
There is source material available for a potential special. The first season of Heated Rivalry adapted most, but not all, of Rachel Reid’s original novel.
One notable chapter from the book that was not included in Season 1 is an epilogue titled “My Dinner with Hayden.” This scene features Shane and Ilya hosting an awkward dinner with Shane’s best friend, Hayden Pike, and his wife, Jackie. It explores the dynamics of Shane coming out to his closest friend and the complicated acceptance of his relationship with Ilya.
Adapting this dinner scene is a strong possibility for a Heated Rivalry bonus episode. It would be a character-focused story set primarily in one location, which could be more feasible to film on a shorter timeline than a full season.
Timeline and Production Possibilities
The potential production schedule for a special episode is still vague. Actor Connor Storrie recently suggested that filming for the next part of the series could begin around summer 2026. It is not clear if he was referring to Season 2 or a possible bonus episode.
If a Heated Rivalry bonus episode were to film in the summer, it could potentially be ready for release in late 2026. In contrast, a full second season is not expected until 2027. This timeline makes the idea of a special episode appealing to both the network and fans eager for new content.
The first season was filmed in just 36 days. A single, focused episode could likely be completed in a shorter period, making it a practical way to bridge the gap between seasons.
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The Show’s Massive Popularity and Impact
The discussion about extra content highlights the show’s extraordinary success. Since its debut on November 28, 2025, Heated Rivalry has become a major hit for Crave in Canada and HBO Max in the United States, Australia, and other regions.
Its stars, Hudson Williams and Connor Storrie, have seen their careers skyrocket. The cultural impact is so significant that both actors have been selected as official torchbearers for the 2026 Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics, blending their fictional roles with the real-world sports event.
The show’s passionate fanbase has driven watch parties, dedicated fitness classes, and immense social media discussion, creating a clear demand for more stories from the world of the Game Changers books.
For now, a Heated Rivalry bonus episode remains a hopeful idea from the network, not a confirmed project. The final choice depends on Jacob Tierney and the creative team finding the right story to tell. Fans can continue streaming the first season on HBO Max while awaiting further official news.
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