The cultural impact of the groundbreaking television series Heated Rivalry has reached a remarkable new milestone, with its lead actors now set to participate in one of the world's most iconic sporting ceremonies. HBO Max confirmed on Thursday that stars Hudson Williams and Connor Storrie have been selected as official torchbearers for the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympic Games.
From Screen to Ceremony: A Prestigious Honour
The announcement positions the actors at the heart of the Olympic tradition, though the precise timing and location of their leg within the ongoing torch relay remain to be disclosed. The relay is currently underway and is scheduled to pass through the city of Trieste on January 22. The Winter Games themselves are set to commence in Milan, Italy, on Friday, February 6, 2026.
In a statement celebrating the news, HBO Max declared: "They brought the heat. Now they’re carrying the torch." This move underscores the show's significant crossover appeal from entertainment into the global sporting arena.
The Show That Captured a Global Audience
Heated Rivalry portrays the compelling narrative of two closeted professional hockey players whose fierce on-ice rivalry evolves into a secret romantic relationship. Based on the 2019 novel by author Rachel Reid, the series has garnered millions of viewers across North America and cultivated a dedicated fanbase, with production for a highly anticipated second season already confirmed.
The show's success has not only entertained but also contributed to a broader conversation within sports culture. NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman, a self-professed fan, revealed he binge-watched the entire series. "I thought the storyline was very compelling and a lot of fun, because I could see where they were picking at things that we had in the past," Bettman noted, acknowledging its resonance with the hockey world.
Navigating Meteoric Fame
For stars Hudson Williams and Connor Storrie, the show's rapid ascent has brought a whirlwind of attention. Williams recently reflected on the intense pace of their newfound celebrity in an interview with Variety. "I was just talking with one of my agents yesterday, and she said Connor and I have had to learn what a lot of actors get in five years, in like 30 days," he admitted, highlighting the occasionally overwhelming nature of their swift rise to fame.
Olympic Hockey: A Centrepiece Event
The torchbearer announcement coincides with building excitement for Olympic hockey, traditionally one of the most eagerly awaited competitions of the Winter Games. The men's tournament begins on February 12, 2026, with a match against Latvia, while the women's team opens their campaign against Czechia on February 5.
The selection of Williams and Storrie as torchbearers bridges the worlds of televised drama and elite athletic competition, symbolising a moment where popular culture and Olympic spirit converge ahead of the 2026 Winter Games in Italy.
