Back in November, the pop culture sphere shifted with the release of Heated Rivalry. Based on Rachel Reid’s beloved MLM hockey romance novel of the same name, the Jacob Tierney-created series follows Shane Hollander (Hudson Williams) and Ilya Rozanov (Connor Storrie), two young professional hockey players from very different backgrounds. After being drafted into the MLH, the pair quickly become fierce on-ice rivals. Off the ice, however, their relationship takes an unexpected, passionate and deeply romantic turn, sparking a secret affair that spans years, countless hotel rooms and one fateful cottage.

Since its debut, Heated Rivalry has well and truly taken over the world – that's not even hyperbole – earning widespread acclaim from viewers and critics alike for its steamy sex scenes, angst-filled storylines and, of course, Williams and Storrie’s electric chemistry. In December, Crave and HBO Max confirmed the series would return for a second season, easing fans’ worries and dodging the one-season cancellation curse that so many LGBTQIA+ shows face. With Shane and Ilya set to return to the ice – and our hearts – for a second period, we’ve put together a comprehensive guide to everything you need to know about Heated Rivalry season two, from cast and plot details to sex scenes, potential new characters and more.