Lionsgate Play Unveils ‘Heated Rivalry’ Season 2 and Theatrical Plan
Lionsgate Play has officially announced the return of its popular series, Heated Rivalry, confirming a second season set for 2027. This announcement comes as the Indian streaming service pivots towards a significant Hollywood initiative and a theatrical-first model for its releases.
Details on Heated Rivalry Season 2
The creator of Heated Rivalry, Jacob Tierney, indicated that Season 2 will delve into “more serious territory,” showcasing an evolution in the narrative of the characters Shane and Ilya. Additionally, Rachel Reid, the author of the series’ source material, provided updates on the progress of the next installment of the books.
Lionsgate Play’s Strategic Shift
This renewal of Heated Rivalry was part of a larger announcement by Lionsgate Play, which revealed plans for over 100 premieres in 2026. The service is adopting a “screen agnostic model,” planning to release between 10 and 12 titles in Indian cinemas before making them available for streaming.
- Theatrical Releases Starting September 2026:
- Billion Dollar Spy starring Russell Crowe
- Empire City featuring Gerard Butler
- Primetime led by Robert Pattinson
- By Any Means starring Mark Wahlberg
- Titan, a creature feature by Jeremy Bold
Rohit Jain, founder of Lionsgate Play Asia, emphasized that the shift to theatrical-first releases signifies a crucial development in how films reach audiences. He stated, “This next phase is about backing stronger stories and collaborating with compelling talent.”
Receptivity to Hollywood Content
With an increasing number of Indian audiences drawn to Hollywood entertainment, Lionsgate Play is enriching its library. The platform already features popular franchises such as John Wick, along with regional titles like Dakshina, Eleven, and Soothravakyam.
The focus will also broaden to include star-driven action and thrillers, with upcoming titles featuring well-known actors such as Jason Statham and Angelina Jolie. Jain noted, “Over the past few years, we’ve built Lionsgate Play into a destination for bold, high-impact storytelling.”
A New Chapter for Lionsgate Play
Following Jain’s acquisition of Lionsgate Play from Lionsgate in January, the service is poised for significant growth. The multiyear licensing agreement allows access to a rich film and TV library, paving the way for this ambitious new chapter.
As Lionsgate Play shifts its strategy, the anticipation for Heated Rivalry and upcoming theatrical releases continues to grow, promising an exciting future for the platform and its audience.
