The popular series “Heated Rivalry” is ramping up its star power for the upcoming season, with the addition of three new cast members. The Canadian-produced hockey drama, which gained international acclaim in its first season, has recruited Milla Jovovich, Kevin Zegers, and Paul Gross for its second season.
Milla Jovovich, known for her roles in “Resident Evil” and “The Fifth Element,” joins the cast, along with Kevin Zegers, recognized for his work in “Gossip Girl” and “Transamerica,” and Paul Gross, a prominent figure in Canadian film and television. The new additions were announced recently, exciting fans and creators alike.
The series, inspired by Nova Scotia author Rachel Reid’s “Game Changers” books, revolves around the clandestine romance between two competitive ice hockey players, Shane Hollander and Ilya Rozanov. The new season will see Paul Gross portraying the hockey league commissioner, Kevin Zegers as Coach Wiebe, and Milla Jovovich as Dr. Galina Molchalina, a therapist supporting Rozanov.
In addition to the new cast members, familiar faces from Season 1 such as Robbie G.K. and Sophie Nélisse are set to reprise their roles. The show has also tapped into a pool of Canadian talent for the upcoming season, including Charlie Gillespie, Daniel Diemer, and Emily Hampshire from “Schitt’s Creek.”
Emily Hampshire, in an interview, expressed her excitement about joining the cast and praised the show’s creator and director, Jacob Tierney. She compared the success of “Heated Rivalry” to that of “Schitt’s Creek,” noting the show’s international acclaim and award wins.
While “Heated Rivalry” did not qualify for the Primetime Emmys this year, it made a significant impact at the Canadian Screen Awards, winning multiple accolades. The shooting for the second season commenced on August 17, with a scheduled premiere on Crave in Spring 2027.
