Evelyn Dee Hetfield

'Heated Rivalry' has been chosen as the 'Sexiest Show' of 2026 by People Magazine: "Adapted from Rachel Reid’s novel, the series turned Hudson Williams, 25, and Connor Storrie, 26, who were both working as waiters before being cast, into superstars. As hockey rivals-turned-lovers Shane Hollander and Ilya Rozanov, the duo sparked a viral frenzy with their off-the-charts chemistry, and the show shattered streaming records to become HBO Max’s most-watched acquired scripted series of all time."

Connor Storrie has been chosen the Best Breakout Actor in the Best Of Dallas® 2026 by Dallas Observer. "The Observer was not immune to the “Heated Rivalry” hysteria that overtook the world this year, and like everyone else, we’ve been grappling for a piece of the phenomenon. Connor Storrie, the curly-haired actor who played Ilya Rozanov in the show, grew up in Odessa, Texas, which is close enough for us to claim him a hometown hero. His performance as Rozanov has received critical praise, with Storrie perfectly balancing the toughness and emotional vulnerability needed for the role. Within months of the show’s success, Storrie blew our socks while hosting “Saturday Night Live,” and he’s already been announced for a slate of new projects. We can’t wait to watch."