‘Intense Competition’ Actor François Arnaud Discusses Unexpected Love Story in Episode 3, Intimate Scenes With [SPOILER], and Publicly Embracing Bisexuality: ‘I Refused to Keep Secrets’

Warning: Contains spoilers for Episode 3 of Heated Rivalry, streaming on HBO Max.

When Franois Arnaud first read the script for the third episode of the popular queer sports drama Heated Rivalry, his reaction mirrored that of viewers now seeing it unfold. Instead of continuing the ongoing affair between Shane Hollander (Hudson Williams) and Ilya Rozanov (Connor Storrie), Episode 3 pivots to a whirlwind romance between Arnauds character, hockey player Scott Hunter, and Kip, a smoothie shop clerk portrayed by Robbie G.K.

It completely caught me off guard, Arnaud explains. The tone shifted dramatically. While Shane and Ilyas narrative centers on years of casual encounters, Scott and Kip genuinely start dating. The episode explores Scotts struggle with being closetedhe avoids public outings with Kip, asking him to be patient, and eventually declines attending Kips birthday at a gay bar. Scott is emotionally present and ready for a relationship, yet hes frozen by the choices hes already made, Arnaud says. He wants it, but he just cant fully commit. Theres a paralysis to him thats heartbreaking.

Heated Rivalry is based on Rachel Reids Game Changers novels and is written and directed by Jacob Tierney. Originally created for Canadian streaming service Crave, it now airs in the U.S. on HBO Max. Since its two-episode premiere on November 28, the show has gone viral, with fans flooding social media with memes and clips. Arnaud compares it to Normal People on ice, referencing the Hulu series that sparked similar buzz in 2020.

Arnaud had not read the books before filming. Jacob said he kept hearing my voice for Scott and couldnt imagine anyone else playing him, he recalls. Episode 3 is fully mine, and theres more to come in later episodes.

On tackling the explicit scenes, Arnaud says, Initially, the intensity of the sex scenes was overwhelming, but Jacob uses those moments to reveal deeper layers of the characters. The emotional payoff is strong.

Open about his sexuality, Arnaud came out as bisexual publicly in 2020. I wasnt ashamed, and I didnt want to hide, he says. It wasnt about sharing details of my relationshipsI just wanted honesty.

Discussing casting, Arnaud emphasizes the irrelevance of an actors personal sexuality. Its absurd to think hiring would depend on that, he says. Enthusiasm and willingness to do the work are what matter.

Arnaud and Robbie G.K. first met on set with intimacy coordinator Chala Hunter. Despite initial awkwardness and pre-filming jokes, the actors approached the scenes seriously. Arnaud highlights one scene where their usual character dynamic was deliberately reversed, showcasing Scotts vulnerability.

Regarding physical preparation, Arnaud trained to appear athletic. Hockey players dont typically have bodies like the characters on screen, he notes. I worked out a lot, though craft services tested my discipline. A small sentimental detail in the show includes Scott wearing banana-themed socks gifted by Kip, symbolizing their first smoothie order.

While a second season hasnt been confirmed, Arnaud hints at the possibility of further Scott-centered stories. Theres been talk of a spin-off, he says. Reflecting on the season finale, he adds, The emotional climax involving all the characters moved me to tears. It was powerful to witness.

Author: Natalie Monroe