It's almost surreal to think that just two months ago, Hudson Williams and Connor Storrie were virtually unknown. Fast forward to today, and they’re basking in the limelight as the most buzzed-about celebrities, thanks to their breakout roles in the hit series Heated Rivalry. This Canadian series, inspired by Rachel Reid's Game Changer novels, has set screens ablaze with its captivating portrayal of a secret romance between rival ice hockey players.
In a whirlwind of fame, the duo recently took on the prestigious role of Olympic torchbearers for the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Games. Dressed in eye-catching pink and white tracksuits, Williams and Storrie proudly carried the torch through the picturesque streets of Feltre, Italy. Reflecting on the moment, Williams shared in a video, “This is crazy,” capturing the excitement of their journey from obscurity to international acclaim.
“This has been the highlight of my life, and meeting Hudson makes that 10 times sweeter.” – Connor Storrie
Heated Rivalry premiered on HBO Max in Australia on November 28, and it was an instant hit. Fans can't get enough of the steamy scenes and intense chemistry between Williams and Storrie, propelling the actors into a frenzy of fan attention. Their newfound fame has also reignited interest in Reid's novels, with two books in the series quickly selling out in Australia.
Before landing their roles, both Williams and Storrie were waiting tables, sharing similar life paths. Their sudden rise to fame has been a shared adventure, as Storrie expressed in an interview, describing Williams as his "best friend" and reflecting on the joy of experiencing this journey together. "We quit our jobs within a day of each other. We booked this and flew out the same day," he recalled, highlighting their parallel paths and the deep bond they've formed.
The journey from anonymity to stardom has been a whirlwind for Williams and Storrie, but they’re embracing every moment, torch in hand, ready to light up the world stage.