Margaret Cho reveals she turned down ‘Heated Rivalry’ role over fears of ICE and Trump

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Television personality and comedian Margaret Cho recently revealed that she turned down a role in the hit LGBTQ+ hockey drama 'Heated Rivalry' because of fears tied to crossing the Canada-US border under President Donald Trump.

Speaking during a recent appearance on the 'I Never Liked You' podcast, Cho reflected on her decision to pass on the project, admitting that it remains a difficult choice for her, admitting that it remains a difficult choice because of her strong connection to the series and belief in its potential early on. 

Margaret Cho reflects on passing up opportunity in 'Heated Rivalry'

During the appearance on the podcast, Cho said, "Last year, I got a pilot script for a show that I really loved, but it shot in Canada, and I was so scared because I'm so vocal about hating ICE and hating this administration."

She further explained, “I was like, I will get detained at the border and I will be put in ICE detention if I go.” Cho said the decision weighed heavily on her at the time, "I was struggling over it. I had to talk to all of these people about it. And I was super upset about it, and I said no. And it was 'Heated Rivalry.'”

The actress also shared that she has since become a fan of the series, created by Jacob Tierney and based on Rachel Reid’s 'Game Changers' book series. When asked whether she still watched the show’s debut season, she revealed tuning in and even “hosted some rewatch parties,” later admitting, “Like, it kills me, and it’s all because of Trump.”

Cho further hinted at the possibility of joining the series in the future, revealing that she has “asked them” about appearing in season 2. “We'll see,” she teased. The show follows characters Shane Hollander, a Canadian hockey star, and Ilya Rozanov, a Russian hockey phenom, whose fierce professional rivalry gradually evolves into a secret relationship spanning several years.

 Set against the high-pressure world of professional hockey, the series examines themes of fame, secrecy, and emotional vulnerability as both navigate the complexities of their careers and personal lives.

Ahead of its November 2025 premiere, the Canadian drama secured distribution through HBO Max, where it later emerged as the platform’s highest-rated acquired non-animated series and ranked among its top five scripted debuts of 2025, according to Variety.

'Heated Rivalry' creators discuss global success and season 2 plans

Cho also admitted that while watching the show, she could easily imagine herself as part of the series, particularly during scenes featuring Hollander, played by actor Hudson Williams. “I watch it, and I’m like, ‘That’s my child! Hudson is my child,” she said. 

She further added, “Of course, the woman who played the part did a great job and she’s wonderful and iconic, and everybody in it is the perfect [fit] — it came out so perfectly.” The series has continued to gain widespread recognition since its release.

“Heated Rivalry represents the very best of what Canadian creators can deliver: rich characters, compelling drama and a world audiences want to live in. The response has been extraordinary," Justin Stockman, vice president of content and programming at Bell Media, said in a statement previously reported by The Hollywood Reporter.

Creator Jacob Tierney also reflected on the show’s global reception, stating, “Watching our show become an international phenomenon has been extraordinary. We're profoundly grateful to everyone that has been on this journey with us. Being renewed for a second season so early is a true honor, and we can't wait to bring you even more of what you love.”

During a February appearance on CBS Mornings, Tierney confirmed that season 2 is expected to premiere in April 2027. Discussing the writing process, he explained, “This time last year I'd written five [episodes], and this time this year I've written zero of them. So it's going to be a little bit later, but it's still going to be soon.”