Lionsgate Play Unveils Major Content Expansion for India with 'Heated Rivalry' Season 2 and Theatrical Push
In a significant announcement, Lionsgate Play has confirmed a second season of the popular queer hockey drama 'Heated Rivalry' for release in 2027. This news comes alongside a bold strategic shift that includes a theatrical-first release model for select premium Hollywood titles and an extensive lineup of over 100 premieres specifically curated for the Indian market in 2026, as reported by Variety.
'Heated Rivalry' Returns with Hudson Williams and Connor Storrie
The acclaimed series 'Heated Rivalry', which premiered on November 28 last year, features actors Hudson Williams and Connor Storrie as rival hockey players whose on-ice animosity gradually evolves into a complex relationship over several years. Based on the book series by author Rachel Reid, the show has garnered attention for its nuanced storytelling and is available on Crave in Canada and HBO Max in the United States. The confirmation of Season 2 marks a continuation of this compelling narrative, much to the delight of fans worldwide.
Theatrical-First Model and Star-Studded 2026 Slate
Starting in September, Lionsgate Play will implement a new theatrical-first strategy in India, where 10-12 high-profile titles will debut in cinemas before becoming available on the streaming platform. This innovative approach aims to enhance the viewing experience and build anticipation for major releases.
The initial theatrical window will feature an impressive roster of films, including:
- 'Billion Dollar Spy' starring Russell Crowe
- 'Empire City' with Gerard Butler
- 'Primetime' featuring Robert Pattinson
- 'By Any Means' headlined by Mark Wahlberg
- The snake creature feature 'Titan'
Beyond these, the broader 2026 lineup is packed with Hollywood heavyweights, showcasing Lionsgate Play's commitment to delivering premium content. Notable titles include:
- 'Greenland 2: Migration' with Gerard Butler
- 'Mutiny' starring Jason Statham
- 'Couture' featuring Angelina Jolie
- 'Famous' with Zac Efron
- 'The Rivals of Amziah King' headlined by Matthew McConaughey
Additionally, the platform is expanding its franchise offerings with 'Apollo Has Fallen' and a third season of 'Vigil', further solidifying its diverse content portfolio.
Strategic Vision and Market Reach
Rohit Jain, who acquired Lionsgate Play from Lionsgate earlier this year after serving as its Asia president for eight years, emphasized the platform's growth trajectory. "Over the past few years, we've built Lionsgate Play into a destination for bold, high-impact storytelling," Jain stated. "In 2026, we're delivering on that vision at full scale, with 100+ premieres, returning franchises, and now, the big screen itself under one roof."
Lionsgate Play operates across eight Asian markets and has established a strong presence in India, reaching over 40 million viewers through a B2B2C distribution model. Key partners in India include JioHotstar, Airtel Xstream, and Amazon Prime Video Channels, enabling widespread accessibility. The platform focuses primarily on Hollywood content alongside regional originals and operates under a multi-year licensing agreement with Lionsgate that covers branding and content, ensuring a steady flow of high-quality entertainment.
This comprehensive expansion strategy underscores Lionsgate Play's ambition to become a dominant player in the competitive Indian OTT landscape, blending theatrical experiences with digital streaming to cater to diverse audience preferences.
