Heated Rivalry season two to turn up the heat with new gay couple

Crave’s breakout drama Heated Rivalry is officially returning for a second season, and the stakes are higher than ever. The series, which became the platform’s biggest original debut and earned international acclaim via HBO Max, has been praised for its bold portrayal of LGBTQ+ athletes in a traditionally macho sport.

While the fiery romance between Canadian star Shane Hollander and Russian phenom Ilya Rozanov remains at the heart of the story, season two will introduce a brand-new gay couple to the ice. This fresh pairing promises to shake up team dynamics and add another layer of tension to the already competitive world of professional hockey.

The new storyline will explore themes of identity, secrecy, and the courage to love openly under the glare of media scrutiny. Fans can expect emotional highs, locker-room drama, and the kind of chemistry that made season one a global sensation.

Season two draws inspiration from The Long Game, the sixth book in Rachel Reid’s Game Changers series. Set nearly a decade into Shane and Ilya’s relationship, the plot delves into their struggle to balance fame with privacy, while hinting at a future where they might finally go public. Alongside this, the new couple’s arc will highlight the evolving culture of hockey and the growing acceptance of queer athletes.

Hudson Williams (Shane) and Connor Storrie (Ilya) are confirmed to return, alongside fan favourites François Arnaud and Robbie G.K. The creators, Jacob Tierney and Brendan Brady, have teased “a season full of surprises” and promised that the writing will prioritise depth and authenticity over speed.

Filming is expected to begin later this year, with a premiere likely in late 2026 or early 2027.