Margaret Cho says fear of Trump and ICE cost her a role in 'Heated Rivalry'

Margaret Cho has revealed that she turned down a role in the hit queer hockey drama Heated Rivalry because she feared being detained by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) while traveling to Canada.

Speaking on the I Never Liked You podcast, Cho said she loved the pilot script but became increasingly anxious about crossing the border because of her outspoken criticism of ICE and President Donald Trump.

“I was so scared,” Cho said, explaining that she worried she would be detained if she went to Canada to film the series. She later regretted declining the opportunity, adding that it “kills” her because she has since become a devoted fan of the show.

Cho said she was originally considered to play the mother of one of the series’ lead characters, portrayed by Hudson Williams. Although she missed out on the part, she praised the actress who ultimately took the role and said she has even hosted rewatch parties for the show.

Based on Heated Rivalry by Rachel Reid, the series follows the secret romance between two rival professional hockey players. The adaptation became a breakout success and has already been renewed for a second season.

Cho said she has reached out to the creators about possibly appearing in season two, teasing, “We’ll see.” For now, the comedian says missing the role remains one of her biggest recent career regrets.