Canadian actor Hudson Williams has hit back at online haters who claim to be fans of his LGBTQ+ sports drama series Heated Rivalry. In a message shared on Instagram Story last Monday, he urged these individuals to reevaluate their behavior. “Don’t call yourself a fan if you share racist, homophobic, biphobic, misogynistic, ageist, or any other form of bigoted comments,” wrote Hudson. “None of us need your hateful ‘love.’ We all respect and support each other and are on the same side if you can’t accept that, then GTFO (Get The F*** Out),” he concluded.
This response comes after Hudson and his co-stars have faced harassment online since their show’s debut on HBO Max in November. Ksenia Daniela Kharlamova, who portrays Svetlana on the series, echoed Hudson’s sentiments. In her Instagram post, she said: “Please don’t turn something on the internet that is about love into hate. So much love was put into this project and we all have a genuine respect for every person involved in making it.”
“We are not characters; our real friends, partners, or family members should be respected, nor can creating false narratives about us be considered ‘love.’ So many good things have come out of this series,” she stated. “Let’s keep it that way. Share the love, the art, the dance parties, and the friendships made.”
The couplet from both actors highlights their commitment to inclusivity within their community and the importance of maintaining positive interactions with all those involved in their projects.