Two fresh faces are set to join the cast of Season 2 of the popular hockey-themed series, “Heated Rivalry,” airing on Crave. Canadian actor Daniel Diemer, best known for his role as Tyson in the TV series “Percy Jackson and the Olympians,” will take on the character of hockey player Ryan Price. Meanwhile, Welsh actor Shaheen Jafargholi, who is also set to appear in the HBO show “War,” will portray musician Fabian Salah, Ryan’s romantic interest.
The characters Ryan and Fabian are central to the plot of the third installment in Rachel Reid’s acclaimed hockey romance novel series, “Game Changers,” titled “Tough Guy.” The story follows Ryan, a professional hockey enforcer, who, upon being traded to a team in Toronto, discovers the city’s vibrant gay village. There, he reunites with Fabian, an aspiring musician with whom he shared a near-kiss in high school. Despite the passage of time, their undeniable chemistry resurfaces, prompting Ryan to contemplate giving up his hockey career for a chance at a future with Fabian.
According to a statement from writer Jacob Tierney and producer Brendan Brady, “Fabian and Ryan each bring a unique dynamic to Rachel Reid’s world. They are complex, bold, and deeply engaging characters, and it was crucial for us to find actors who could authentically embody all these facets. Daniel and Shaheen bring a sense of confidence and emotional depth to their roles. We are eager for audiences to witness their portrayal of Fabian and Ryan and how they bring these characters to life.”
Season 1 of the series adapted the first two books in Reid’s series, “Game Changer” and “Heated Rivalry.” The upcoming Season 2 of “Heated Rivalry” will continue to follow the love story of former hockey rivals turned partners, Shane Hollander and Ilya Rozanov, from Reid’s novel “The Long Game.” Hudson Williams and Connor Storrie will reprise their lead roles in the television adaptation.
The second season will also incorporate the narratives of Troy Barrett, a hockey player traded to Ilya’s new team, and Harris Dover, a social media manager, from the fifth book in the series, “Role Model.” New additions to the cast include Justice Smith as Harris and Charlie Gillespie, known for his role in “Julie and the Phantoms,” as Troy. Additionally, Emily Hampshire from “Schitt’s Creek” and drag queen Priyanka are among the other new cast members.
The eagerly awaited Season 2 of “Heated Rivalry” is scheduled to premiere in the spring of 2027.
