The passionate and secretive world of professional ice hockey is set to return to our screens, as the critically acclaimed series Heated Rivalry has been officially renewed for a second season. Fans of Shane Hollander and Ilya Rozanov can rejoice, though they will need to exercise some patience for the next chapter of this enemies-to-lovers saga.
Official Renewal and Anticipated Release Window
The show's future was confirmed on December 12th, 2025, when the streaming service Crave made an announcement via the official Heated Rivalry Instagram account. The series proved so popular that it was renewed even before the first season finished airing. A celebratory video from HBO Max featured stars Hudson Williams and Connor Storrie sharing the news with a specially branded season two hockey puck.
In a significant commitment to the story, industry publication GQ has reported that both lead actors have signed contracts for three seasons, indicating long-term plans for the adaptation should it continue to be successful.
However, viewers eager for more will have to wait. Showrunner Jacob Tierney told Variety that a 2026 release is not feasible, stating, "It can’t be same time next year because this time last year I’d written five of these [episodes] and this time this year I’ve written zero of them." He emphasised a commitment to quality over speed, but confirmed the creative team's goal is to avoid a two-year gap. The current aim is to have season two released before November 2027.
Who's Returning for the New Season?
Based on the source material, the core cast is expected to return for the next instalment of passion and conflict on the ice. The anticipated returning cast includes:
- Hudson Williams as Shane Hollander
- Connor Storrie as Ilya Rozanov
- François Arnaud as Scott Hunter
- Robbie G.K. as Kip Grady
- Sophie Nélisse as Rose Landry
It is also highly likely that new faces from Rachel Reid's expansive Game Changers book universe will be introduced, following the pattern set in season one with characters like Scott and Kip.
Plot Spoilers: What's Next for Shane and Ilya?
The first season adapted the plot of the second Game Changers novel, Heated Rivalry, culminating in the dramatic cottage scene where Shane's parents discover his secret relationship with Ilya.
Season two is expected to leap forward in the literary timeline, primarily drawing from the sixth book in the series, The Long Game. This narrative explores a major point of tension in the couple's relationship: Ilya's growing desire to come out publicly clashes with Shane's deep-seated fear and insistence on remaining in the closet. This conflict tests their bond both on and off the rink.
There is also speculation that the new season may weave in storylines or introduce characters from the third, fourth, and fifth books of the series, further expanding the televised Game Changers world.
While no trailer or footage from season two is available yet, the confirmation of its development and the clear roadmap from the books provide plenty for fans to dissect and anticipate. Production updates are expected throughout 2026 as filming gets underway.
