Rachel Reid, author of the novels behind the Heated Rivalry television series, responded publicly Friday to online criticism surrounding the casting announcements for season two. Charlie Gillespie was cast as Troy Barrett, a professional hockey player, while Justice Smith was cast as Harris Drover, the team’s social media manager. The characters are central to Reid’s novel Role Model, the fifth book in her Game Changers series.
Some viewers on social media expressed concerns about Smith’s casting, citing physical appearance as a factor. Reid addressed the backlash through an Instagram story, referencing similar criticism that had surfaced regarding previous casting decisions in the show’s first season. Showrunner Jacob Tierney and executive producer Brendan Brady issued a statement defending the selection, noting that both actors demonstrated strong chemistry and an understanding of the characters’ emotional depth during the casting process.
The second season will center on Ottawa as the home base for main character Ilya Rozanov, played by Connor Storrie, following the character’s relocation to the Canadian team in the season one finale. This move positions Rozanov closer to his romantic partner Shane Hollander, portrayed by Hudson Williams. Production on season two is scheduled to begin this month, with a spring 2027 release targeted. The series airs on Crave and HBO Max, having been greenlit for a second season early in its first season run.
Tierney continues as writer, director and executive producer, with Brendan Brady, Jayme Alter Wilson, Lori Fischburg, and Liane Cunje in producing roles. Reid serves as a consulting producer. Mike Goldbach joins the writing team as co-writer alongside Tierney for the new season.
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