Instant Chemistry: How Connor Storrie and Hudson Williams Became 'Heated Rivalry''s Steamiest Couple

The casting process for HBO Max's "Heated Rivalry," based on Rachel Reid's acclaimed "Game Changers" novel series, proved to be transformative for both Connor Storrie and Hudson Williams. During a recent interview with Out Magazine, Storrie provided an intimate look at the audition experience that ultimately shaped the show's most critical casting decision.

"Hudson was the third actor that I read with," Storrie explained in the interview. "The first two I was like, 'Okay, this is cool,' and then Hudson came on. Jacob (the showrunner) actually texted me directly and was like, 'What do you think? 'And I was like, 'Yeah, Hudson, for sure. 'Instantly."

The immediacy of Storrie's response underscores the significance of what transpired during that particular chemistry read. For a show that, according to showrunner Jacob Tierney, features approximately three sex scenes per episode, finding actors who could authentically portray both the physical and emotional intimacy between two rival professional hockey players was paramount.

From Hudson Williams' side, the reaction was equally compelling. During the same Out Magazine interview, Williams reflected on his own experience auditioning with multiple actors for the role of Shane Hollander, the American hockey captain at the center of the narrative.

"I read with one other possible Ilya, and it was good," Williams recalled. "But something about Connor… There was an inexplicable X-factor that just felt realer than what I thought it could possibly be. And that was something."

The quote in question, which Williams initially hesitated to share publicly, was eventually revealed by Tierney during the interview. According to the showrunner, Williams had told him: "Connor felt like he was going to pin me down and fuck me." The candid remark reflected the palpable sexual tension and authenticity that emerged between the two actors during their audition, a quality that proved decisive in the casting process.

Jacob Tierney, who serves as showrunner, writer, and director for "Heated Rivalry," emphasized that casting Shane and Ilya was not a matter of finding two individually talented actors, but rather discovering a pair whose chemistry could carry an entire series.

"They were essentially cast at the same time. It was very clear to us that we needed to find Shane and Ilya together," Tierney explained. "This show lives and dies with them, so we needed to make sure that this worked together. There are terrific actors who are in, you know… They're just in different shows. You need to find the people who are going to be together in the same show, and that's what the two of them had quite instantly."

This philosophy reflects a broader understanding within the entertainment industry about the importance of ensemble chemistry, particularly for romantic narratives. For a series centered on the evolving relationship between two men—from fierce professional rivals to intimate partners—the authenticity of their connection on screen would be fundamental to the show's success.

Beyond the initial audition chemistry, both Storrie and Williams have spoken about how their off-screen relationship contributed to their ability to authentically portray intimate scenes on camera. In an appearance on "The Social" on CTV, Storrie discussed the foundation of their professional partnership.

"Me and Hudson are best friends. We became really close really quickly, and it's way easier to have sex on camera and fall in love with someone if you're friends," Storrie shared. This observation speaks to a broader conversation within LGBTQ+ media about the importance of trust, communication, and genuine connection between actors portraying intimate scenes.

During interviews promoting the series, both actors emphasized that filming "Heated Rivalry" involved "no boundaries" in terms of their collaborative approach to the material. Storrie recalled telling the production team, "you can do whatever you want to me, however you want to me," a statement that reflects the level of trust and professionalism both actors brought to the project.

Hudson Williams' commitment to the role of Shane Hollander extended beyond the audition process. During the Out Magazine interview, Williams described his emotional journey in understanding and embodying his character.

"I fell in love with Shane immediately. I mean, I was falling in love with him even when I read the sides, which were just the audition… like, two scenes I got for the audition. By the time I finished reading episode 6, I was crying. I felt like no one else was allowed to play him. I needed to play him," Williams revealed. This level of emotional investment in a character demonstrates the depth of preparation and vulnerability that Williams brought to the role.

Connor Storrie's approach to preparing for the role of Ilya Rozanov involved engaging with Rachel Reid's source material. When asked whether he had read Reid's novels before auditioning, Storrie clarified his timeline.

"Not before auditioning," Storrie explained. "I read Jacob's scripts first. Once we went further in the audition process, I got all six episodes. But before we started filming, I finished the first book involving Shane and Ilya." This methodical approach allowed Storrie to develop a comprehensive understanding of his character's arc while remaining open to the unique interpretation that the television adaptation would offer.

The story of how Connor Storrie and Hudson Williams came to be cast as the leads in "Heated Rivalry" represents more than a simple casting anecdote. It illustrates the meticulous process involved in bringing LGBTQ+ narratives to the screen, particularly when those narratives center on intimate relationships between men.

The show, which premiered on HBO Max on November 28, 2025, represents a significant moment in queer television, adapting Rachel Reid's beloved romance novels into a visual medium. The decision to prioritize chemistry between lead actors—evidenced by the instant recognition both Storrie and Williams had of their connection—has already resonated with audiences, with viewers on social media praising the authenticity and intensity of the on-screen romance.

Moreover, the casting process highlights how LGBTQ+ stories are increasingly being given the resources, attention, and creative consideration they deserve. By centering the show around two actors with genuine chemistry and emotional depth, Tierney and his team signaled a commitment to authenticity that extends beyond tokenistic representation.

As "Heated Rivalry" continues to gain traction following its debut, the casting of Connor Storrie and Hudson Williams stands as a testament to the power of chemistry, preparation, and mutual respect between performers. Their story—from that pivotal third audition read to their current status as best friends and collaborative partners—offers a glimpse into how meaningful LGBTQ+ television is being created in 2025.

The instant recognition that both actors had of their connection, combined with their willingness to invest emotionally in their characters and trust one another completely, has created the foundation for what many are already calling one of the most compelling queer romance series to date.