The series confirms its renewal and explains the current release plans
Heated Rivalry has become a massive success following its international release on HBO Max in November 2025. The series first premiered on Crave in Canada and later became available on several global platforms, spawning six episodes that had the world obsessed after its finale on December 5, 2025. Shortly after the finale, protagonists Hudson Williams and Connor Storrie officially confirmed that the show would return for season 2, reaffirming the series’ global reach and interest.
The producers discuss a possible special episode between seasons
The series’ creator, Jacob Tierney, has stated that he will not rush the creation of Heated Rivalry Season 2, regardless of the show’s confirmation for its next installment. However, according to producer Justin Stockman, the creative team has discussed the idea of releasing a stand-alone episode before season 2. Despite the exciting possibility, he clarified that the idea is under discussion and that no final decision has been made.
@hbomax The game’s not over. Season 2 of #HeatedRivalry is coming to HBO Max.
“We’re going to see what’s feasible,” Stockman said. “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. I would love to have this back for the holidays next year, but that likely is not going to happen. We can’t rush the process. We won’t be able to repeat the magic if we push him.”
The source material offers story options for a future special
Heated Rivalry is based on and adapted from Canadian author Rachel Redi’s “Game Changers” book series. Creator Jacob Tierney specifically took the second book in the saga, which is also called “Heated Rivalry,” to bring season 1 to life. Although the upcoming source material for the show has not been revealed, there could be several options to produce a special or stand-alone episode. The original novel includes an epilogue and a bonus story taking place three weeks after the epilogue. While fans are hopeful for a special episode before season 2, no release date has been announced as of February 1, 2026.
