SPOILER ALERT: This article contains spoilers for Episode 5 of “Heated Rivalry,” now streaming on HBO Max.
If Season 2 of “Heated Rivalry” follows the storyline of Rachel Reid’s “Game Changers” novel series, Stanley Cup winner Scott Hunter will purchase the gay bar Kingfisher Tavern.
François Arnaud, who portrays Scott, already has a dream guest star in mind for the show. “If I’m the bartender, I want Jennifer Coolidge as a barfly,” Arnaud reveals. “I want her there at all times.”
Adapted and directed by Jacob Tierney, “Heated Rivalry” is based on Reid’s queer romances. HBO Max acquired the show from Canadian streamer Crave and premiered the first two episodes over Thanksgiving weekend.
In Episode 3, Scott embarks on a passionate relationship with smoothie shop barista Kip (Robbie G.K.), but their romance hits a roadblock when Scott, who is closeted, refuses to acknowledge Kip’s birthday at the Kingfisher. However, in Episode 5, Kip witnesses Scott and his team winning the Stanley Cup. In a surprising turn of events, Scott not only invites Kip onto the ice at the end of the game but also comes out of the closet by kissing him.
Arnaud reflects on Scott’s emotional journey in this scene, revealing, “He can’t believe it himself, and yet he falls into it. There are so many things happening at once. There’s a giddiness, excitement, and some fear, for sure, but also he’s pushing through that fear. I think it plays really well.”
The actor admits to shedding tears when watching the final cut of the scene. “Seeing it afterwards with all the people added with CGI, I felt like I was watching this at a real hockey game,” he shares. “It was like, ‘This is epic.’”
Following the kiss, Ilya Rosanov (Connor Storrie) calls Shane Hollander (Hudson Williams) to accept his offer to spend the summer together at his vacation cottage, declaring, “I’m coming to the cottage.”
Arnaud explains the significance of Scott’s actions for Shane and Ilya, stating, “I think they’re kind of living vicariously through Scott. They see the possibilities for themselves. It becomes this reassuring aspect. That’s why Scott and Kip’s book in the original books is called ‘Game Changer.’ That’s really what he does for them. He changes the game.”
Expressing his deep connection to Scott’s character, Arnaud becomes emotional, saying, “I have so much tenderness for Scott. It just feels like he deserves it. It’s so earned.” He also teases another “big moment” for Scott in the Season 1 finale, promising viewers an emotional experience.
“Heated Rivalry” Episode 6 is set to premiere on HBO Max on Dec. 26.
