Two fresh faces are set to make their debut in the world of “Heated Rivalry,” triggering mixed reactions among fans regarding the casting choices for the upcoming Season 2. Crave announced on Friday the addition of Justice Smith and Charlie Gillespie to the cast of the immensely popular hockey romance series.
Gillespie, originally from New Brunswick and known for his role in the film “One Night Only,” will portray Troy Barrett, a forward for the Ottawa Centaurs. He has previously appeared in the Netflix series “Julie and the Phantoms.” On the other hand, Smith, recognized for his performances in “I Saw the TV Glow,” “Pokémon Detective Pikachu,” and “Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves,” will take on the role of Harris Drover, the Centaurs’ social media manager.
Troy and Harris are the main characters in “Role Model,” the fifth book of Rachel Reid’s “Game Changers” series, serving as the basis for the show “Heated Rivalry.” The second season will continue to follow the storyline of Ilya Rozanov and Shane Hollander from the first season, while integrating the narrative of Troy and Harris.
Director Jacob Tierney and producer Brendan Brady expressed their confidence in the chosen actors, stating, “Justice and Charlie immediately grasped the essence of these characters, embodying vulnerability and resilience.” However, the casting decision has sparked a divided reaction among fans.
While some fans are thrilled about the new additions, others have voiced disappointment over Smith’s portrayal of Harris, citing a missed opportunity for greater inclusivity in body representation on screen. Fans have expressed their concerns on social media platforms, with discussions pointing out the importance of accurate character portrayal.
The production team of “Heated Rivalry” has yet to respond to CBC News’ request for comment on the casting controversy. The second season is scheduled for release in Spring 2027, with filming already underway and fans eagerly anticipating further updates. Director Tierney has urged fans to respect the cast and crew’s privacy during filming locations.
