Heated Rivalry took the world by storm following its release last year, and now the team behind the hit series is building on its success with the Irina Foundation, a charity dedicated to championing inclusivity, mental well-being and resilience.
Led by Jacob Tierney and Brendan Brady, co-founders of the production company Accent Aigu Entertainment, a foundation has been formed inspired by characters Shane Hollander and Ilya Rozanov.
Heated Rivalry is based on Rachel Reid’s romantic book series Game Changers, with the charity taking direct inspiration from one of the plot points. The Irina Foundation gets its name from the charity set up by Shane and Ilya at the end of the first novel, named after Ilya’s late mother, Irina, who struggled with her mental health.
Much like the charity set up by the characters (a youth hockey camp promoting inclusion), the Irina Foundation’s goal is to connect people through organised sports and arts programmes, with a focus on LGBTQ+ and underserved communities.
View this post on Instagram
Jayme Alter Wilson, President of Accent Aigu Entertainment, said, “We chose the name Irina Foundation because, at the heart of Heated Rivalry, Irina represents something much bigger. She reminds us that behind every struggle is a person who deserves to be seen, loved and supported.”
She added, “The Foundation is our way of honoring that message. We hope to channel the love people have for the world Rachel has created, and for Shane and Ilya, into something that can make a meaningful difference in the real world.”
According to the Foundation website, the charity “identifies and supports established nonprofit organizations delivering existing qualifying arts and sports programs whose work aligns with its mission.”
Fashion company Kate Spade New York was the inaugural donor, making a founding contribution, while men’s grooming brand Harry’s also contributed. Donations can be made through the website.
Heated Rivalry’s second season is expected to premiere in spring 2027, with Justice Smith, Charlie Gillespie, Emily Hampshire, Edvin Ryding, Robert Naylor, Sabrina Jalees and Priyanka among the new cast members joining the series.
© 2026 GCN (Gay Community News). All rights reserved.
Support GCN
GCN is a free, vital resource for Ireland’s LGBTQ+ community since 1988.
GCN is a trading name of National LGBT Federation CLG, a registered charity - Charity Number: 20034580.
GCN relies on the generous support of the community and allies to sustain the crucial work that we do. Producing GCN is costly, and, in an industry which has been hugely impacted by rising costs, we need your support to help sustain and grow this vital resource.
Supporting GCN for as little as €1.99 per month will help us continue our work as Ireland’s free, independent LGBTQ+ media.