‘Heated Rivalry’ star Hudson Williams addresses Swastika symbol in resurfaced photo after controversy erupts online
Hudson Williams, best known for his role in the hit series ‘Heated Rivalry’, has come under the scanner after an old photograph from his teenage years resurfaced online. In the resurfaced image, the actor is seen with a swastika symbol drawn on his face with a black marker.The image, which began circulating on social media over the weekend, reportedly dates back to Williams’ high school years in Canada. As per a report on TMZ, the image was taken during an annual “campout” tradition in Williams’ small hometown, where teens would gather for parties that allegedly involved underage drinking. Part of the celebrations would include drawing on each other’s clothing and bodies with markers.Sources close to the actor claimed that he was unaware of what had been drawn on his face at the time, and even told the portal that while the symbol was ‘inappropriate’, it should be noted that it was drawn by intoxicated teenagers.The report stated that Williams is “keenly aware” that such behaviour is inexcusable and understands the seriousness of the symbol. They added that he does not condone or support the symbol and fully understands its offensive nature.A friend of the actor told the outlet, “The markings do not and have never reflected Hudson’s beliefs, values, or character.”The controversy comes after Williams, on Sunday night, saw his series, ‘Heated Rivalry’, emerge as one of the biggest winners at the Canadian Screen Awards, earning a record-breaking 16 awards, including Best Drama Series and Best Lead Performer for Williams.Series creator Jacob Tierney, who won both Best Direction and Best Writing for a Drama, also teased the show’s future saying, “We’re getting the smutty band back together. [Heated Rivalry Season 2] is going to be what you want it to be.”Based on the popular hockey romance novels, ‘Heated Rivalry’ follows the relationship between two closeted professional hockey players, played by Williams and Connor Storrie.
