Canadian Cities Battle for Claim Over Rising Star Hudson Williams

Canadian cities are embroiled in a spirited competition over the ownership of actor Hudson Williams, who portrays the character Shane Hollander in the hit series Heated Rivalry. This Crave Original series, based on Rachel Reid’s internationally acclaimed Game Changers novels, tells the intricate love story between two rival hockey players over a decade. Initially renowned for its bold romance scenes, the show has since gained acclaim for its exploration of LGBTQ+ themes and critiques of toxic masculinity in the National Hockey League (NHL).

As the series has captured international attention, Williams has seen a meteoric rise in fame, making viral appearances on late-night television and gracing red carpets, including the upcoming 2026 Golden Globes. This surge in his popularity has led several Canadian cities to stake their claims to the actor, igniting an online rivalry that has fans taking sides.

Ottawa, Vancouver, and Montreal Enter the Fray

Ottawa, the fictional hometown of Hollander, has been particularly vocal. The city’s tourism board recently updated its social media bio to read, “Birthplace of Shane Hollander. 🔥🏒” They also engaged with fans on social media, commenting on Golden Globes posts featuring Williams, declaring, “That’s our boy.”

Meanwhile, Vancouver, where Williams studied film and acting at Langara College, has not taken the competition lightly. The City of Vancouver issued a statement acknowledging the playful rivalry, affirming their pride in Williams as a Vancouverite while leaving the fictional debate to Ottawa and Montreal. “The City would like to remind the public that the real-life actor, Hudson Williams, is a Vancouverite whom we are very proud of,” the statement read.

Montreal has also joined the discussion, with their tourism board retorting, “Back off. He’s ours,” referencing Hollander’s affiliation with the fictional Montreal Metros hockey team in the show. This spirited exchange has led to humorous social media posts, with users rallying for their respective cities and even calling on Kamloops, Williams’ actual birthplace, to reclaim their claim.

The Impact of a Cultural Phenomenon

The enthusiasm surrounding Heated Rivalry reflects the broader cultural impact of the series and Williams’ role in it. The portrayal of LGBTQ+ romance in a traditionally masculine sport like hockey has resonated with many viewers, highlighting the changing dynamics in sports culture.

While the City of Kamloops has not yet commented on the ongoing debate, its tourism board has updated its Instagram to emphasize Williams’ roots, stating, “Birthplace of Hudson Williams. 🔥🏒.” This collective pride showcases how Williams’ success is seen as a victory for all of Canada, uniting fans across the country.

As the conversations continue online, the friendly competition between Canadian cities serves as a testament to the cultural significance of Heated Rivalry and the emerging voices within the entertainment landscape. The series not only entertains but also fosters discussions around identity and representation, making it a noteworthy addition to contemporary television.

In the wake of this playful rivalry, it is clear that Hudson Williams has become a national treasure, with his character’s influence extending beyond the screen and into the hearts of fans across Canada.