“Heated Rivalry” not only dramatically increased star Francois Arnault’s popularity, but also expanded his vocabulary.
The fan frenzy ignited online by the hot Canadian sports series has been primarily led by young female fans. The name is “fujoshi”.
According to LGBTQ+ media, the Japanese term “them,” often shortened to “fujo,” refers to female fans who enjoy content centered around male homosexual relationships. Fans of “Heated Rivalry” frequently tout that they’re “enjoying” the show’s latest heated scenes.
But what does Arnaud know about this emerging subculture?
At the 2026 Critics’ Choice Awards on Sunday, Arnault, 40, exclusively told Page Six that he was unfamiliar with the term until recently, but that it has now entered his lexicon.
“What I understand is that they’re really young,” he said of the most enthusiastic Fujoshi fans. “For example, teens who shouldn’t watch this show! You’re too young to watch it!”
Arnaud says she’s still educating herself, saying, “I’m getting used to it. I’m learning on the job,” and playfully flips out on page six, “Are you a fujoshi?” Maybe so.
Arnault wore a black double-breasted blazer on the red carpet, complementing it with a subtle striped shirt and black tie.
During the show, Arnaud and Joy Ride star Cherie Cola presented the Critics’ Choice Award for Best Actress in a Limited Series to Succession alum Sarah Snook.
“Heated Rivals” follows two rival hockey players, played by Hudson Williams and Connor Story, as they ignite a secret romance on the ice.
Arnaud plays team captain Scott Hunter, who also struggles to be open about his sexuality and eventually goes public with his relationship with his barista boyfriend.
The series has become a television sensation in recent weeks. It has already been renewed for a second season, making it the most-watched original series in Crave history. Also, for American fans watching in the US, it is the top debut non-animated title on HBO Max.
