Justice Smith Addresses Fan Backlash Over 'Heated Rivalry' Season 2 Casting

Justice Smith responded to online backlash after his casting as Harris Drover in 'Heated Rivalry' Season 2 on HBO Max, posting an Instagram Story that he is "honored" to play the character and will "take good care of him." Smith and Charlie Gillespie were announced as Season 2 leads Harris Drover and Troy Barrett on 8 August 2026 (Deadline).