Heated Rivalry showrunner Jacob Tierney condemned the racist backlash faced by lead star Hudson Williams, who is of mixed Korean descent. The show, featuring a diverse cast, became a hit, but some fans reacted negatively, targeting Williams and co-star Ksenia Daniela Kharlamova with abuse. Tierney emphasized the importance of having a non-white lead and the lessons learned from the intense public attention. Cast member François Arnaud also faced trolling due to his bisexuality, despite the show's themes of queer love, prompting a joint statement from him and Williams against the hate.
"We didn't expect any of this attention or reaction from a public that might not exist at all. We've learned a lot [since the show aired], and there's a lot to think about moving forward in terms of the fandom and all that comes with it, negative and positive."
"We have a non-white lead. I think that's f****** important. We can learn a few lessons out of that: you don't need to be making an Asian show to have an Asian lead. Hudson's a f****** star, man."
"Don't call your fans toxic if they are just passionate about the show. But there is a line, and some of the comments have crossed it."
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