Heated Rivalry author and new star shrug off casting backlash

Author Rachel Reid isn't sweating the online noise over new faces joining her hockey romance series. Variety reports Reid took to her Instagram story to seemingly brush off early critics of the "Heated Rivalry" season two casting, announced Friday.

New star Justice Smith also addressed his new role. The Hollywood Reporter notes the actor said he's "moved by the support and love" after being cast as team social media manager Harris.

Smith is set to star alongside Charlie Gillespie, who will play pro hockey player Troy, per The Hollywood Reporter's rundown. The casting news for the Crave-HBO Max series sparked immediate chatter, which the creative team appears to be taking in stride.

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