Actors Hudson Williams and Connor Storrie Carry Olympic Flame in Italy Hudson Williams and Connor Storrie, who play Canadian forward Shane Hollander and Russian forward Ilya Rozanov in Heated Rivalry, ran the 49th segment of the Milan‑Cortina torch relay through Feltre, Italy, on Sunday [1][2]. Their appearance links the queer‑hockey drama directly to the official Olympic ceremony as the flame travels from Rome to the February 6 opening ceremony [4][5]. The relay window runs from January 23 to February 6, but the Feltre leg marks the first confirmed on‑site run for the duo [1][5].

Heated Rivalry Series Gains Global Spotlight Through Torch Participation The series adapts Rachel Reid’s Game Changers novels, focusing on a secret romance between two professional hockey stars from Canada and Russia [1][3][4]. HBO Max announced the actors’ torch‑bearer roles via a social‑media post, emphasizing the cultural crossover between LGBTQ‑focused entertainment and Olympic tradition [5][6]. Media coverage notes the show’s viral memes, fitness‑class tie‑ins, and watch parties at LGBT+ venues, illustrating its broad cultural resonance beyond streaming [3].

Show’s Move to HBO Max Drives Record‑Breaking Ratings After debuting on Canada’s Crave platform, Heated Rivalry was acquired by HBO Max in late November, after which Variety ranked it the top‑rated non‑animated acquired series on the service since its 2020 launch [1][2][5][6]. The acquisition spurred a ratings surge that propelled the series to the No. 1 spot on HBO Max and secured a second‑season renewal and upcoming Italian broadcast [4][5]. Industry analysts credit the platform shift for expanding the show’s international audience and its visibility ahead of the Games [2].

Series Popularity Expected to Boost Olympic Hockey Viewership Analysts argue that the show’s rapid rise and its torch‑bearer appearance could translate into higher television audiences for Olympic ice‑hockey, a sport historically struggling for mainstream attention [1][2]. The series’ blend of high‑stakes sport drama and LGBTQ representation has attracted a diverse, global fan base, offering the Olympics a ready‑made audience for its hockey events [1][2]. Observers suggest the synergy may help the Games achieve broader cultural relevance and increased sponsorship value [1].

U.S. Men’s Hockey Faces Pressure After Long Medal Drought USA Hockey General Manager Bill Guerin warned the men’s team that only a gold medal will satisfy expectations following a February loss at the 4 Nations Face‑Off [1][2][5][6]. The United States has not won a best‑on‑best senior international title since the 1996 World Cup of Hockey and has not captured Olympic men’s gold since the 1980 “Miracle on Ice” [1][2][5][6]. The heightened stakes add urgency to the team’s preparation for Milan‑Cortina, where the torch‑bearing actors will help spotlight the sport’s Olympic return [1][2].