The latest episode of the popular series Heated Rivalry has turned the spotlight firmly onto ice hockey captain Scott Hunter, played with compelling depth by actor François Arnaud. Episode 3 serves as a bottle episode adaptation of the first book in the series, The Long Game, delving into Hunter's secret relationship with art-loving smoothie barista Christopher 'Kip' Grady.
From Montreal to the Screen: Who is François Arnaud?
While his character Scott Hunter is American, the actor bringing him to life is proudly Canadian. François Arnaud was born on July 5, 1985, in Montreal, Quebec, making him 40 years old and a Cancer. He honed his craft at the prestigious Conservatoire d'art dramatique in Montreal before embarking on a screen career that began in 2007.
In Heated Rivalry, Arnaud's character Scott Hunter is written as 6ft 4in in the source material. In real life, the actor stands at an impressive 1.87m, or 6ft 1in, which makes him slightly taller than his co-stars Hudson Williams and Connor Storrie.
A Prolific Career on Film and Television
If François Arnaud looks familiar, it's because he has built a substantial body of work over nearly two decades. Viewers may recognise him from his leading role as Cesare Borgia in the historical drama The Borgias, or from his turn in the supernatural series Midnight Texas.
His film credits include notable works like I Killed My Mother and Twinless. Arnaud has also made memorable guest appearances in beloved series such as Schitt's Creek and the critically acclaimed Yellowjackets.
Personal Life and Advocacy
François Arnaud has been open about his personal life and identity. In 2020, he publicly came out as bisexual in a powerful message on Instagram Stories for Bi Visibility Day. He wrote, "Labels are frustrating and words, imperfect. But I've always considered myself bisexual. Not confused or trying to look edgy. Not disloyal. Not ashamed. Not invisible."
He is currently in a relationship with fellow actor Marc Bendavid, known for his role in How to Buy a Baby. The couple have been dating since May 2022. While Arnaud tends to keep his personal life private on social media, Bendavid marked their one-year anniversary with a post in 2023.
Fans eager to follow his career can find him on Instagram under the handle @francoisarnaud. As Heated Rivalry continues to captivate audiences, François Arnaud's nuanced portrayal of Scott Hunter ensures his place as a standout performer in the series' talented ensemble.
