Model Lauren Chan is set to join the cast of the upcoming second season of *Heated Rivalry*, a popular series on Crave that will also air on HBO. The new season is anticipated to premiere in spring 2027. Chan will take on the role of Gen, a photographer for the Ottawa Centaurs, adding to the ensemble of returning characters whose stories continue to captivate fans.
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*Heated Rivalry* follows the central romance between Ilya Rozanov, played by Connor Storrie, and Shane Hollander, portrayed by Hudson Williams. The chemistry between these two hockey players, who transition from fierce rivals to lovers, was well received in the show’s first season. Filming for the new series is currently taking place in Canada, showcasing the show’s origin and aim at authenticity.
At 36 years old, Chan is no stranger to the entertainment industry. She gained prominence as one of the cover models for the 2025 Sports Illustrated Swimsuit edition, notably becoming the first out lesbian to feature on the magazine’s cover. This landmark achievement, she described as overwhelming and deeply meaningful, has only added to her public standing as an advocate for LGBTQ+ representation.
In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, Chan expressed her excitement about joining *Heated Rivalry*. She remarked on the significant cultural impact the series had on Canada and the global entertainment landscape, stating, “On a personal level, it affected me so deeply that I actually told [creator and director] Jacob [Tierney] I’d play a dog if he asked.” Her enthusiasm underscores her gratitude towards the creative team, highlighting the collaborative spirit that drives the project.
Chan’s career is multifaceted. In addition to her modelling work, she serves as a red carpet correspondent for the entertainment news programme eTalk and has made appearances on shows like *The Traitors Canada* and *Canada’s Drag Race*. Her experience in the fashion world is extensive, having worked as a fashion journalist previously. Moreover, she is a passionate advocate for body positivity and inclusivity, using her platform to champion these critical messages.
The upcoming season of *Heated Rivalry* is expected to draw inspiration from Rachel Reid’s sixth novel in the *Game Changers* series, titled *The Long Game*. This new chapter will take place nearly a decade after the first season, with Shane and Ilya still navigating their relationship amid the challenges of public life and the pressure that comes with it. Storrie has hinted that fans of the series may want to read the book beforehand to glean insights into the characters’ evolving dynamic.
While Chan’s role in the series may be a smaller one, her addition to the cast is already generating excitement among fans. With the return of familiar faces like François Arnaud, who plays Scott Hunter, and Robbie G.K., his partner Kip, viewers can expect a thrilling continuation of the story that blends themes of love, rivalry, and personal growth.
As the entertainment industry continues to evolve, *Heated Rivalry* stands out not only for its compelling storyline but also for its commitment to representation and inclusivity in a genre that traditionally has had its limitations. With Chan on board, there is an expectation that the show will further embrace these values while entertaining audiences with its blend of romance and sport.
As the release date draws closer, anticipation is building for the return of *Heated Rivalry*. Fans eagerly await to see how the story of Ilya and Shane will unfold, along with the new challenges and triumphs that Chan’s character will undoubtedly bring into the mix. In the interim, the excitement surrounding the cast and crew continues to grow, with many looking forward to a cinematic experience that promises both emotional depth and engaging narratives.