In a glamorous fusion of entertainment and sport, the stars of the acclaimed television series Heated Rivalry have been selected for a prestigious Olympic role. Hudson Williams and Connor Storrie, who portray elite ice hockey players in the hit show, have been named official torchbearers for the upcoming Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics.
Torch Relay Details and Ceremony Plans
The actors will participate in the Olympic torch relay, which is scheduled to culminate in Milan on 6 February 2026, coinciding with the opening ceremony. This grand event is set to be primarily hosted at Milan's iconic San Siro football stadium, a landmark venue that will add a distinctive Italian flair to the proceedings. While organisers have yet to disclose the specific segments or locations where Williams and Storrie will carry the flame, their involvement is expected to draw significant attention from fans worldwide.
Background of Heated Rivalry and Its Impact
Heated Rivalry, a series created by Canadian writer-director Jacob Tierney and adapted from Rachel Reid's bestselling novels, has captivated audiences since its late-2025 debut. The show follows the intense dynamics between Shane Hollander, played by Hudson Williams, and Ilya Rozanov, portrayed by Connor Storrie, as elite ice hockey players whose rivalry extends beyond the rink. Its rapid success has not only spawned a fervent online fanbase but also secured a swift renewal for a second season, underscoring its global appeal.
Announcement and Streaming Context
The torchbearer announcement was made by HBO Max, the international streaming platform for Heated Rivalry, which also holds broadcast rights for the Olympics in the United States and select European regions. This partnership highlights the growing synergy between entertainment and major sporting events. Notably, the Milano Cortina Games will mark a milestone as the first Winter Olympics to be streamed on HBO Max in Italy and Germany, expanding the platform's reach in these key markets.
Williams' Milan Presence and Fashion Week Appearances
Adding to the buzz, Hudson Williams is already making waves in Milan as Olympic excitement builds. During the recent Milan Men's Fashion Week, he showcased his versatility by walking the runway for Dsquared2's ski-inspired collection and taking a front-row seat at Giorgio Armani's show. These appearances reflect a broader trend where luxury brands are embracing winter-sport imagery in anticipation of the Games, further blurring the lines between fashion, entertainment, and athletics. Williams' journey to stardom, famously beginning with a chance audition while he was waiting tables, adds a compelling personal narrative to his Olympic role.
As preparations for the 2026 Winter Olympics intensify, the inclusion of Williams and Storrie as torchbearers promises to enhance the event's cultural resonance, bridging the worlds of television drama and international sport in a celebration set against Milan's historic backdrop.
