Canadian cities compete over claim to Kamloops-born ‘Heated Rivalry’ star

Everyone wants a piece of Heated Rivalry actor Hudson Williams.

From east to west, Canadian cities claim the Kamloops-born rising star as their hometown celebrity while the fan fervor over the steamy hockey drama continues.

First it was Tourism Ottawa, claiming him as “our boy” in tongue-in-cheek social media comments and naming his character in its bio.

Then followed Vancouver’s Langara College and Tourism Kamloops.

While Ottawa may claim the birthplace of his Heated Rivalry character and Langara claims Williams’ alma mater, Tourism Kamloops is sure to note the BC city is the “birthplace of Hudson Williams,” according to its social media page.

Amid the playful social media declarations competing for Heated Rivalry clout, the Canadian TV show has seen widespread praise.

The Canadian TV drama became an international sensation as it centres around two professional hockey players harbouring a secret gay romance. It has even sparked a growing interest in the sport and the NHL, not typically known for openness to gay players.