Connor Storrie and Hudson Williams had seen unexpected career trajectory after HBO Max Heated Rivalry, but the series also got them an unexpectedly good friendship.

The two actors stars as hockey stars Shane Hollander (Williams) and Ilya Rozanov (Storrie), whose secret romance has simmered for nearly a decade. 

And their chemistry has taken the show to certain heights.

Storrie and Williams strong bond has fans speculating about different conotations. However, the stars have set the record straight about their offscreen relationship.

In December, Storrie said “Hudson is my best friend,” while speaking with W magazine.

“I literally can’t fathom doing this without him,” Storrie said, adding that he and Williams were at similar points in their lives before the project.

He explained that they had both quit their jobs within a day of each other, booked the project, and flew out the same day.

Storrie added that now, with the two being seen internationally for the first time, the experience has been the highlight of his life, and meeting Hudson made it “ten times sweeter.”

Williams, meanwhile, credited Storrie for keeping the press tour enjoyable during an interview with The Hollywood Reporter.

He said having one of his best friends by his side through it all was “already a luxury that a lot of actors don’t get.”

Williams added that without Storrie, he probably would have had less energy for the demanding schedule.

He explained that, as an omnivert with ADHD, his social battery can drain quickly, but he allows himself moments of chaos and playfulness once he’s rested.

“Whatever mood I’m in, I just try to be Canadian, don’t be mean. Whatever they get, they get,” he concluded.