Actor Justice Smith has joined the cast of the Crave original series Heated Rivalry for its upcoming second season, according to reports from Bell Media and The Hollywood Reporter. Smith will portray the character Harris Drover, joining a growing ensemble that includes Charlie Gillespie as Troy Barrett, alongside returning leads Hudson Williams and Connor Storrie.
Justice Smith Reacts to Fan Support and Casting Backlash
According to coverage by Cover Media, Justice Smith addressed his casting in an Instagram post, expressing gratitude for the reception from followers. “I have to say I am moved by the support and love I’m getting from DMs, fans who have welcomed me with open arms and who already feel a responsibility to protect me,” Smith wrote, as reported by myTalk 107.1. He added, “I am honoured to play a character you all care about deeply, and I promise I will take good care of him if you give me the chance.”
The casting choice drew scrutiny from certain book fans, according to Cover Media, who criticized the selection of a non-plus-sized actor for Harris. In Rachel Reid’s Game Changers book series—which serves as the source material for the adaptation—the character is described as stocky and rugged, with mentions of a broad chest and a soft belly. Smith’s previous credits include starring roles in Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom, Pokémon: Detective Pikachu, and All the Bright Places.
Production Timeline and Season Two Setting
Director and crew updates noted by CBC emphasize that the production requires focused working space amid growing fan attention around shooting locations.
The plot of the second season shifts focus to Ottawa, where main character Ilya Rozanov—played by Connor Storrie—joins a low-ranking Canadian hockey team, according to Cover Media. The character relocates to the team following the events of the season one finale to be closer to his boyfriend and rival Shane Hollander, played by Hudson Williams.
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