> ## Content Index
> Fetch the complete content index at: https://www.scenemag.co.uk/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover other available public pages before exploring further.

# 'Heated Rivalry' stars carry Winter Olympics torch through Italy
- URL: https://www.scenemag.co.uk/heated-rivalry-stars-carry-winter-olympics-torch-through-italy/
- Published: 2026-01-27T12:33:40.000Z
- Updated: 2026-01-27T12:33:40.000Z
- Author: Graham Robson
- Tags: News

The stars of the hit hockey drama ***Heated Rivalry*** have stepped from the screen into the global sporting spotlight, carrying the Olympic flame ahead of the **Milan–Cortina 2026 Winter Games**. Actors **Hudson Williams** and **Connor Storrie**, who portray rival hockey talents in the Cr**a**ve and **HBO Max** series, joined the official torch relay during its passage through **Feltre, Italy**, on **25 January**.

Selected as torchbearers by the Milan-Cortina organising committee, the pair brought considerable star power to the 49th leg of the relay, delighting crowds who recognised them from the now‑global series. The relay, which began in **Olympia**, **Greece**, in November 2025, will culminate at the Opening Ceremony on **6 February** at **Milan**’s **San Siro** stadium. 

> [ View this post on Instagram ](https://www.instagram.com/reel/DT8z-UYjgjh/?utm%5Fsource=ig%5Fembed&utm%5Fcampaign=loading)
> 
> [A post shared by The Olympic Games (@olympics)](https://www.instagram.com/reel/DT8z-UYjgjh/?utm%5Fsource=ig%5Fembed&utm%5Fcampaign=loading)

The actors’ participation mirrors the arc of their on‑screen characters, Shane Hollander and Ilya Rozanov, who compete at Olympic level in the show’s storyline. *Heated Rivalry*, based on **Rachel Reid**’s *Game Changers* novels, has rapidly become an international sensation since HBO Max acquired distribution rights, becoming one of the platform’s top‑rated non‑animated acquisitions. 

Williams and Storrie, clad in ceremonial white relay outfits, were enthusiastically greeted by spectators lining the streets. Videos shared on official Olympic channels captured the pair engaging warmly with fans, with Williams responding to one supporter’s praise - “Italy loves you a lot” - by placing a hand over his heart and replying, “I love Italy.” 

Their appearance further cements the show’s cultural impact, particularly among LGBTQ+ audiences and hockey fans who have embraced its blend of sporting rivalry, emotional storytelling and queer representation. The first series’ success has already secured a renewal, with a second season in development for release in early 2027\.