A Major Nod to LGBTQ+ Representation in Sports
In a significant move for queer visibility in athletics, actors Hudson Williams and Connor Storrie have been announced as official torchbearers for the upcoming Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics. The pair are the stars of the acclaimed television series Heated Rivalry, where they portray two professional ice hockey players who navigate a complex relationship from bitter rivals to passionate lovers.
The selection by the Olympic Committee is a noteworthy acknowledgment of a story that centers a same-sex romance within the traditionally hyper-masculine world of professional sports. Williams and Storrie will take part in the iconic Olympic Torch Relay as it makes its journey towards the Opening Ceremony on February 6, 2026.
About 'Heated Rivalry'
The series tells the story of Shane Hollander (played by Williams) and Ilya Rozanov (Storrie), two of the world's most famous hockey players. Locked in a fierce professional rivalry, they discover a deep, personal connection off the ice that challenges their lives and careers. The show has been praised for its nuanced depiction of their relationship and has garnered a dedicated following, particularly within the LGBTQ+ community.
Now Available in the Netherlands
For fans in the Netherlands who are eager to see the series, the timing couldn't be better. Heated Rivalry is now available for streaming on HBO Max. The platform is also an Official Olympic Rights Media Holder, meaning subscribers can watch both the series and the live action from the Milano Cortina 2026 Games.
The decision to feature Williams and Storrie in the torch relay celebrates not only their work as actors but also the powerful and inclusive story their series represents, bringing a prominent queer narrative directly into the Olympic spotlight.
