Good news for Heated Rivalry fans craving more of Shane Hollander and Ilya Rozanov: a bonus episode might be on its way in 2026, offering a special look at the characters while fans wait for Season 2.
The smash-hit queer hockey drama, based on Rachel Reid’s bestselling novel, has already been renewed for a second season by Crave Canada, Bell Media, and showrunner Jacob Tierney. But due to production timelines, Season 2 likely won’t air until 2027.
To tide fans over, Crave is considering a special standalone episode set between Seasons 1 and 2.
“We’re going to see what’s feasible,” said Justin Stockman, vice-president of content development and programming at Bell Media, in an interview with Toronto Star.
“If Jacob [Tierney] can find a way to make the source material work in a way that gets us something sooner or something special, I’m sure he will.”
A Bonus Episode in the Works?
While nothing is confirmed yet, the idea echoes Euphoria’s mid-season specials like “Trouble Don’t Last Always” and “F**k Anyone Who’s Not a Sea Blob”, which gave fans character-focused narratives between full seasons.
Stockman added that although a holiday 2026 release would be ideal, the creative team won’t rush production:
“We can’t rush the process. We won’t be able to repeat the magic if we push him.”
Tierney Staying Focused
Showrunner Jacob Tierney remains grounded despite the buzz. In the same interview, he expressed gratitude for the show’s unexpected success, but noted the importance of tuning out the hype to deliver a strong continuation.
“This isn’t what any of us expected and I’m endlessly grateful for it. But it’s the kind of noise I have to drown out to make the next two seasons,” Tierney said.
“I have to keep trusting myself… That’s the way you’re going to get a good Season 2.”
What Fans Can Expect
If greenlit, the bonus episode would bring back Hudson Williams as Shane Hollander and Connor Storrie as Ilya Rozanov — the intense on-ice rivals whose chemistry quickly turned Heated Rivalry into a queer fan favourite.
Whether it explores their emotional fallout from Season 1 or delves into their past, the potential special episode promises to be a much-needed fix while fans wait for the next full season.
For now, all eyes remain on 2026 as fans eagerly await updates.
