The major hockey leagues are officially back in session. Heated Rivalry, the Canadian sports romance that became a global streaming hit, has been confirmed for a second season. The series, which follows the secret romance between rival hockey stars Shane Hollander and Ilya Rozanov, was renewed by Crave and HBO Max in December 2025, shortly after its successful first season concluded. While fans will have to wait a bit longer for new episodes, the creators and cast are plotting a return to the ice.
Official Renewal and Fan Reaction
The renewal announcement came through a social media video from HBO Max featuring stars Hudson Williams and Connor Storrie. The actors opened a gift box to find a hockey puck engraved with “Heated Rivalry” on one side and “Season 2” on the other. The caption declared, “The game’s not over.”.
Series creator Jacob Tierney and executive producer Brendan Brady released a statement expressing their gratitude. “Watching our show become an international phenomenon has been extraordinary,” they said. “Being renewed for a second season so early is a true honour, and we can’t wait to bring you even more of what you love.”.
The show’s swift pickup was no surprise given its record-breaking performance. It became one of HBO Max’s top scripted debuts and Crave’s most-watched original series to date. Its blend of intense romance and professional sports drama captivated audiences, earning it a dedicated fanbase desperate for more of Shane and Ilya’s story.
Season 2 Plot and Story Source
The new season will continue to draw from author Rachel Reid’s Game Changers book series. While the first season adapted the first two novels, the story for Season 2 is set to pull from the sixth book, The Long Game. This novel jumps forward in time, exploring Shane and Ilya’s relationship after nearly a decade of secrecy.
“Start reading The Long Game if you want to spoil it for yourselves,” actor Connor Storrie joked in the Season 2 renewal video.
The official book description sets the stage: after ten years together in secret, it’s “time for them to decide what’s most important—hockey or love.”. Showrunner Jacob Tierney explained that the new season will focus on the challenges of maintaining a committed relationship in the spotlight. “It’s really about continuing that progress of what happens after that first blush of love… what happens after you decide you’re in love and how do you sustain it?”.
The first season ended with Shane and Ilya at a turning point. After confessing their love at Shane’s cottage, they were accidentally outed to Shane’s parents. They left with a plan for Ilya to transfer to a team in Ottawa so they could be closer and begin publicly laying the groundwork for a future together. Season 2 is expected to explore the execution of that plan, the public launch of their charity—the Irina Foundation—and the immense external pressures that threaten their bond.
Returning Cast and New Faces
While official casting has not been announced, the core duo will return. Hudson Williams and Connor Storrie are locked in to reprise their roles as Shane Hollander and Ilya Rozanov. Reports indicate the actors are under contract for three seasons.
Expect other fan favorites to return as well. François Arnaud and Robbie G.K. are likely to be back as Scott Hunter and Kip Grady, whose own romance was a major part of Season 1. The show’s creator has confirmed that Scott and Kip’s story, which overlaps with Shane and Ilya’s in the books, will continue. Other key characters like Shane’s parents, played by Christina Chang and Dylan Walsh, and Ilya’s friend Svetlana (Ksenia Daniela Kharlamova) are also expected to return.
New characters from Reid’s book universe may be introduced. Matthew Finlan, who had a small role as bartender Kyle Swift in Season 1, could see an expanded part, as his character is the lead in a later book, Common Goal. Author Rachel Reid has also expressed hope that the story from her book Role Model could be woven into the new season.
Production Timeline and Release Date
Patience will be required for the new season. Creator Jacob Tierney has been clear that a 2026 release is not happening. “It can’t be same time next year,” Tierney stated, noting that the writing process for Season 2 is starting from scratch, unlike the accelerated schedule for the first season.
“It’s going to be a little bit later, but it’s still going to be soon,” Tierney said. “It’s not gonna be two years. It’s not even gonna be 18 months, I don’t think.”.
Actor Hudson Williams suggested that filming is currently planned for summer 2026, mentioning “July or August” as potential start dates. This timeline points toward a likely premiere in late 2026 or early 2027. The season is expected to consist of another six-episode run.
Where to Watch Globally
Upon release, Season 2 will follow the same distribution pattern as the first season. It will premiere in Canada on the Crave streaming service. In the United States and many international territories, including Australia, Asia, Latin America, and Europe, it will be available on HBO Max. Other regional distributors like Neon in New Zealand and Movistar Plus+ in Spain are also expected to carry the new season.
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What to Expect From the New Season
Based on the source material and creator comments, Season 2 will delve into more complex relationship dynamics. The “external battles” will intensify as Shane and Ilya navigate Ilya’s team transfer, the public launch of their charity, and the constant threat of exposure. The series will also continue to explore the wider world of the Game Changers books, potentially setting up future stories for other beloved characters.
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