Two fresh faces have been revealed for the upcoming Season 2 of Crave’s popular hockey series, “Heated Rivalry.” Canadian actor Daniel Diemer, known for his role as Tyson in “Percy Jackson and the Olympians,” will take on the character of hockey player Ryan Price. Welsh actor Shaheen Jafargholi is set to portray musician Fabian Salah, who also has a role in the HBO series, “War.”
The central figures, Ryan and Fabian, are the main characters in the third book of Rachel Reid’s acclaimed hockey romance series, “Game Changers,” titled “Tough Guy.” The narrative follows pro hockey enforcer Ryan as he joins the Toronto team and encounters Fabian, an aspiring musician from his past. Despite their undeniable chemistry, a potential future together may require Ryan to make a difficult choice between love and his hockey career.
According to a statement from writer Jacob Tierney and producer Brendan Brady, “Fabian and Ryan bring distinct energy to Rachel Reid’s world.” The actors Daniel and Shaheen were chosen for their ability to embody the multifaceted nature of their characters, promising a captivating portrayal. Season 1 of the series adapted the first two books in Reid’s series, “Game Changer” and “Heated Rivalry.”
Season 2 of “Heated Rivalry” will continue the story of Shane Hollander and Ilya Rozanov, former hockey rivals turned lovers from Reid’s novel “The Long Game,” with Hudson Williams and Connor Storrie reprising their roles. Additionally, the upcoming season will integrate the narratives of Troy Barrett, a hockey player traded to Ilya’s team, and Harris Dover, a social media manager, from the fifth book, “Role Model.”
The cast announcement for Season 2 has sparked some criticism regarding body diversity among fans. Justice Smith will play Harris, and Charlie Gillespie, known for his role in “Julie and the Phantoms,” will portray Troy. Notable new additions to the cast include Emily Hampshire from “Schitt’s Creek” and drag queen Priyanka.
“Heated Rivalry” Season 2, featuring these exciting additions, is scheduled to premiere in the spring of 2027.