In an exciting development, Crave’s popular hockey drama series, “Heated Rivalry,” has introduced two new cast members for its upcoming Season 2. Canadian actor Daniel Diemer, known for his role as Tyson in “Percy Jackson and the Olympians,” will play the character of hockey player Ryan Price. Joining him is Welsh actor Shaheen Jafargholi, set to portray musician Fabian Salah, also appearing in the HBO series “War.”
The duo will bring to life the protagonists of the third novel in Rachel Reid’s acclaimed hockey romance series, “Game Changers” – “Tough Guy.” The storyline follows pro hockey enforcer Ryan as he navigates his trade to the Toronto team and encounters Fabian, an aspiring musician from his past. Their undeniable chemistry reignites old feelings, but a potential future together may require Ryan to make a life-altering decision regarding his hockey career.
Expressing their enthusiasm for the new additions, writer Jacob Tierney and producer Brendan Brady highlighted the unique energies Diemer and Jafargholi bring to the characters of Ryan and Fabian. The upcoming season will continue the narrative of Shane Hollander and Ilya Rozanov, portrayed by Hudson Williams and Connor Storrie, respectively, from Reid’s novel, “The Long Game.”
Additionally, Season 2 will integrate the stories of Troy Barrett, a hockey player traded to Ilya’s new team, and Harris Dover, a social media manager, from the fifth book, “Role Model.” Crave has also revealed that Justice Smith will play Harris and Charlie Gillespie, known for “Julie and the Phantoms,” will take on the role of Troy. Notable new cast members include Emily Hampshire from “Schitt’s Creek” and drag queen Priyanka.
Anticipated to premiere in spring 2027, Season 2 of “Heated Rivalry” promises to captivate audiences with its diverse and engaging character dynamics.