Heated Rivalry star Connor Storrie has sent fans into a spin after ditching his trademark curls for a dramatic new buzzcut.
The 26-year-old actor, who plays bisexual Russian hockey player Ilya Rozanov, was recently spotted in Toronto with co-star Christina Chang while filming for season two is underway. The photo quickly went viral, with fans mourning the loss of Ilya’s curls while others were very much on board with the new look.
For now, it remains unclear whether the haircut is specifically for Heated Rivalry or another project.
Fans Mourn Ilya’s Curls
Storrie’s longer, curly hair became a defining part of Ilya’s look in season one, so the sudden change has naturally raised questions about what audiences can expect when the series returns.
Some fans have pointed out that Ilya has longer hair in Rachel Reid’s The Long Game, which is expected to heavily influence the second season. Others are simply accepting that wigs exist and hair grows back.
Either way, the buzzcut has become one of the biggest talking points surrounding the show’s return.
Storrie Has Wanted To Cut His Hair For A While
The haircut should not come as a complete surprise.
Storrie previously told Teen Vogue that he was ready to shave his head and wanted someone to hire him for a role requiring a dramatic haircut.
“I’m ready to cut this stuff off if y’all want me to be completely honest,” he said. “I’m ready to shave my head.”
He later repeated the sentiment during a Vogue video, saying he wanted to eventually “cut it all off”.
It appears he finally got his wish.
Season Two Is Now Filming
Production on Heated Rivalry season two is currently underway in Canada, with Storrie returning alongside Hudson Williams as Shane Hollander.
The first season became a major queer television hit thanks to its mix of romance, hockey and plenty of heat, turning both actors into breakout stars almost overnight.
Storrie has since attracted attention for everything from fashion campaigns to awards buzz, and his increasingly high-profile friendship with Williams has kept fans watching closely between seasons.
The new haircut has simply given them something else to obsess over.
Will Ilya Keep The Buzzcut?
There has been no official confirmation that Ilya will actually appear with the buzzcut in season two.
The haircut could be part of the character’s storyline, a temporary personal choice, or something Storrie needed for another project.
Until footage from the new season arrives, fans will have to keep guessing.
One thing is certain: curls or no curls, Connor Storrie still has the internet paying attention.
