"Heated Rivalry" actor discusses missing sex scenes in episode 3: 'Maybe they're saving it'

Franois Arnaud, one of the leads of Heated Rivalry, revealed that there is significantly more footage with co-star Robbie G.K. than what appears in episode 3. Known for his roles in Schitt's Creek and The Borgias, Arnaud initially feared the project might lean into "soft porn" territory but quickly realized the show subverts expectations.

Arnaud shared his first encounter with Robbie G.K.'s character Kip behind the scenes and described filming their intimate scenes as respectful but not precious. He emphasized that a substantial portion of their work, including roughly two days of sex scenes, did not make it into the episode, hinting that it may appear in future installments.

Episode 3 shifts focus to Scott Hunter (Arnaud) and Kip Grady (Robbie G.K.), the main couple from Rachel Reids Game Changers series, presenting a softer tone compared to the steamy exploits of Shane Hollander and Ilya Rozanov. "Its a change of pace," Arnaud explained, "but it shapes how the story unfolds in later episodes."

The episode highlights Scott and Kip's initial meeting at a juice bar and the evolution of their private romance. Arnaud notes that while the episode features fewer intimate moments, the scenes were designed to convey sweetness, spontaneity, and joy rather than merely titillate the audience.

Arnaud has a longstanding relationship with showrunner Jacob Tierney, having previously collaborated on the sitcom The Moodys. Tierney personally reached out to Arnaud to join the series, describing the Scott-Kip storyline as an emotional counterpart to Shane and Ilyas narrative. Initially skeptical, Arnaud recognized the shows deeper approach to intimacy, where sexual scenes serve as a gateway to character development.

Unlike the more restrained dynamics of other couples in the series, Scott and Kips relationship combines tenderness with passion. Arnaud highlighted his experience performing intimate scenes in previous projects, noting that Heated Rivalry allowed him to explore sex as a narrative device rather than mere spectacle.

He first met Robbie G.K. during a brief Zoom chemistry test, after which he was immediately cast as Kip. The actors worked closely with intimacy coordinator Chala Hunter to ensure the scenes felt authentic and liberating, rather than overly staged or intimidating.

While episode 3 concludes with Scott unable to openly declare his love during Kip's birthday celebration, Arnaud teased that more of their story will unfold over the remaining episodes of season 1. Despite the series rapid rise in popularity, he remains focused on the story rather than the overnight attention, acknowledging the pressure of fan expectations.

New episodes of Heated Rivalry continue to release weekly on HBO Max in the U.S.

Author: Noah Whitman