HBO Max and Cre’s steamy ice hockey romance series Heated Rivalry, which has generated plenty of buzz since its premiere in November, is officially getting a second season.
Based on Rachel Reid’s Game Changers book series – particularly the 2019 novel of the same name – the show follows Shane Hollander and Ilya Rozanov, played by Hudson Williams and Connor Storrie, as they nigate fiery competition on the ice – and a passionate but complex connection off it – over their eight-year journey from being rookies to going to the Olympics.“Watching our show become an international phenomenon has been extraordinary,” the show’s creator, Jacob Tierney, and executive producer Brendan Brady shared in a statement, per Today. “We’re profoundly grateful to everyone that has been on this journey with us. Being renewed for a second season so early is a true honour, and we can’t wait to bring you even more of what you love.”
AdvertisementIn a recent interview with Canadian entertainment news show Etalk, Tierney expressed his hope that Heated Rivalry would lee fans with “horny joy”. He’d previously told The Hollywood Reporter that while he initially didn’t think he’d adapt the book due to its “level of smut”, he decided to do it “because it’s gay and hockey”, which he said he identified with.
So, who is Jacob Tierney?
What’s his background?
Jacob Tierney with his father, the late Kevin Tierney. Photo: @jacob.tierney/InstagramTierney, 46, refers to himself as “a queer, half-Jewish guy from Montreal”, according to The Globe and Mail. His father was Kevin Tierney, the late Canadian film producer best known for producing and co-writing Bon Cop, Bad Cop (2006).
Tierney also has Irish roots, per entertainment news outlet Playback. His mother, Terry Smiley, was a teacher while his sister, Brigid Tierney, is an actress.
What’s he known for?
Jacob Tierney (second from left) with the stars of Heated Rivalry, including Hudson Williams and Connor Storrie (centre) at the premiere of their series in Toronto, in November. Photo: Getty Images via AFP