Heated Rivalry Reportedly Eyed for Season 3 and a Festive Feature
Reports suggest the hit Canadian drama series could return for a third installment alongside a holiday movie, though key characters might be absent.
Published 8 November 2026
Potential Season 3 and Christmas Movie Development
Reports indicate that the popular series Heated Rivalry may be expanding significantly with plans for a third season and a Christmas feature-length movie. The Canadian drama, created by streaming service Crave, has achieved international acclaim following its debut in November 2025.
While only the second season has received official confirmation from the platform, sources point to secret parallel production schedules and a holiday project slated to begin filming in December.
Star Cast Exclusion from the Holiday Special
Despite the excitement surrounding a potential Christmas movie, reports state that leads Hudson Williams and Connor Storrie will not participate in the special. The actors portray central hockey rivals-turned-lovers Shane Hollander and Ilya Rozanov.
Instead, the holiday narrative could draw inspiration from author Rachel Reid's short story Merry Christmas, Scott and Kip!, which centres on characters played by François Arnaud and Robbie G.K. as they experience their first holiday together.
Season 2 Schedule and Prior Leaks
The upcoming second season is scheduled to release in Spring 2027 and will consist of six episodes according to showrunner David Tierney. Crave has maintained that no further projects have been officially confirmed beyond these plans.
Speculation about concurrent filming for seasons two and three previously surfaced online due to a casual remark by cast member Dylan Walsh. Walsh, who portrays David Hollander, mentioned shooting twelve episodes during a video message on Cameo.
Cast Member Response and Apology
The accidental disclosure by Dylan Walsh led to significant online attention, prompting the actor to temporarily freeze his social media account. He later released a statement through Variety explaining his comments.
Walsh clarified that he spoke off the cuff regarding production schedules and apologized for any confusion caused to fans and the production team, while expressing gratitude for the show's enthusiastic reception.
Source Material Adaptations and Non-Linear Storytelling
The television series is adapted from Rachel Reid's novel series but follows an unconventional adaptation order. While the first season utilized the second book, the second season will adapt the sixth book, titled The Long Game.
Additionally, the series has introduced characters from other books in the series, such as Harris Drover and Troy Barrett from Role Model, with Justice Smith and Charles Gillespie joining the cast.
Viewing Options and Availability
Audiences seeking to watch the first season of the drama can stream episodes on platforms like Sky Atlantic and NOW. Viewers can also track updates and recommendations through dedicated television guides.
News Overview
Reports indicate that Heated Rivalry may receive a third season and a Christmas movie, though main stars Hudson Williams and Connor Storrie are reportedly not involved in the holiday special. The production details previously sparked online discussion after cast member Dylan Walsh mentioned shooting additional episodes in a video clip.
Key facts
- Heated Rivalry was released in November 2025.
- Season 2 is set to be released in Spring 2027 and will run for six episodes.
- Dylan Walsh plays Shane's dad, David Hollander.
- Rachel Reid created the book series on which the show is based.