Francois Arnaud on Heated Rivalry: Bringing heart, vulnerability and representation to the breakout series

François Arnaud, who plays Scott Hunter in the hit series Heated Rivalry, is reflecting on the experience of joining a show that has quickly resonated with audiences.

Speaking about being part of a cast largely made up of younger actors, Arnaud admitted he was very aware of his position on set. “It made me feel like I’m ancient,” he joked, while noting that the role ultimately offered him one of the most meaningful storylines of his career.

Arnaud’s character stands apart from the younger leads, representing a different stage of life and a longer history of secrecy. He explained that Scott’s arc was designed to show the emotional cost of staying closeted for years. “It provides perspective on what it means to stay, to keep that a secret for longer and the weight, the toll that it takes,” Arnaud said, emphasising how deeply the storyline affected him.

The actor also addressed early attention around the show’s physical and provocative elements, noting that they only tell part of the story. According to Arnaud, the heart of Heated Rivalry lies in its emotional honesty and character-driven storytelling.

One of the most powerful moments for Scott comes near the end of the season, when the character publicly embraces his identity. Arnaud described an immediate connection to that turning point. “There’s something about the moment that Scott finds himself in his life… that really deeply moved me and I connected with on an immediate level,” he shared.

Arnaud also spoke about audience reactions and online conversations sparked by the series. While grateful for the passion of fans, he stressed the importance of respecting boundaries between performers and their private lives, focusing instead on the work itself and the stories being told.

Ultimately, Arnaud hopes Heated Rivalry leaves viewers with something lasting. “I just hope it makes people softer, more forgiving, tender and more empathetic to whatever other people have going on,” he said. For the actor, the show’s success is rooted not in shock value, but in its ability to foster understanding and emotional connection.