Heated Rivalry Author Rachel Reid Reacts to Criticism Over Season 2 Casting
Reid said fans once called the original Ilya and Shane casting “wrong and bad” after Season 2 added Justice Smith and Charlie Gillespie.
- On Friday, Justice Smith and Charlie Gillespie were cast in Season 2 of the Heated Rivalry series as Harris Drover and Troy Barrett, respectively, joining returning stars Connor Storrie and Hudson Williams.
- Author Rachel Reid addressed negative online reactions to the casting on her Instagram account, recalling that previous casting decisions for Season 1 eventually resonated deeply with audiences.
- Some fans expressed skepticism on X regarding Smith's casting, citing that Harris is described as "stocky" in Reid's source material, while critics argued against casting a "skinny" actor for the role.
- Production for the sophomore season began in Canada earlier this week, with series creator Jacob Tierney urging fans to "give our cast and crew the space they need to do what they do best."
- The show is aiming for a spring 2027 release, with executive producer Carlyn Klebuc expressing confidence that "Jacob is writing and directing, and he needs the time to make another beautiful season.
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If You're Obsessed With "Heated Rivalry" (Like Me), You'll Want To Know These 9 Facts About New Cast Member Charlie Gillespie Before Season 2 Drops
Get to know Charlie Gillespie, the newest Heated Rivalry Season 2 cast member, from his role and age to his dating life, socials, and fun facts.
"Heartbroken": Diversity Criticism Over Heated Rivalry Casting Justice Smith
The producers of Heated Rivalry have confirmed that Justice Smith (Pokémon Detective Pikachu) and Charlie Gillespie (One Night Only) will join the cast of Season 2. While many are excited ... The post “Heartbroken”: Diversity Criticism Over Heated Rivalry Casting Justice Smith appeared first on Star Observer.
Heated Rivalry Season 2 cast announcement sparks criticism from some fans over body diversity
Crave has confirmed the casting of Justice Smith and Charlie Gillespie for the characters of Harris and Troy in Season 2 of Heated Rivalry, sparking some criticism among fans who were hoping to see more book-accurate body diversity.
Rachel Reid brushes off Heated Rivalry season 2 casting backlash
Rachel Reid appears to have reacted to the backlash to the confirmed Heated Rivalry season two casting news with a cheeky dig. Crave, the Canadian channel behind the gay hockey drama, confirmed that Justice Smith and Charlie Gillespie have joined the show as Harris Drover and Troy Barrett. Smith’s casting had previously been rumoured, with […] The post Rachel Reid brushes off Heated Rivalry season 2 casting backlash with cheeky dig appeared firs…
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