When François Arnaud, the 40-year-old actor behind Scott Hunter in Heated Rivalry, opens up about his sexuality, you might be surprised to find how relatable his journey is. Fans of the show—and particularly the LGBTQ community—have been quick to bond with Arnaud’s portrayal of a closeted hockey player on the edge of a life-changing decision. But behind the scenes, Arnaud himself is far from new to the concept of living authentically.
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Arnaud publicly came out as bisexual in 2020, marking the occasion with an open and honest post on Bisexual Visibility Day. “Perhaps out of fear of oversharing. Under the guise of privacy, maybe. Probably because ‘masculinity’ is a most fragile currency, ready to nose-dive at the first sign of vulnerability or difference,” he shared in the post, offering an unfiltered take on the struggles of bisexual visibility.
“I’ve always considered myself bisexual. Not confused or trying to look edgy. Not disloyal. Not ashamed. Not invisible,” he declared, capturing a sentiment that many bisexual people—especially those in the public eye—can relate to. Arnaud’s words were a direct challenge to the stigmas that still plague bisexuality, and his personal transparency has only endeared him further to his fans, particularly those who see his vulnerability as a powerful beacon.
Scott’s Struggle: A Cautionary Tale of Repression
In Heated Rivalry, Arnaud’s character, Scott, navigates a similarly tumultuous journey. A professional hockey player who is both emotionally and physically at odds with his own identity, Scott is a study in the weight of hidden truths. As he embarks on a whirlwind romance with Kip (played by Robbie GK), Arnaud’s performance reflects the complexity of balancing a public persona with the hidden parts of oneself. “He’s emotionally ready for that,” Arnaud explains, referring to Scott’s swift plunge into a relationship that challenges everything he’s fought for, including his career.
As the show dives deeper into its romantic entanglements, Scott’s storyline isn’t just about the sparks that fly between him and Kip—it’s about the emotional cost of living a lie. Arnaud describes the process of playing Scott as “tired” and “exhausting” at times, emphasizing how Scott’s inability to authentically express himself has begun to take a toll on his life and career. “Everything he sacrificed for hockey actually ends up costing him,” Arnaud explains, revealing the heartbreaking trade-off between personal fulfillment and professional success.
The Impact of Scott and Kip’s Forbidden Romance
This theme of sacrifice is a central one in Heated Rivalry, and Arnaud sees it as a cautionary tale. “It’s kind of cute at the beginning, but it’s actually not that,” he reflects. “It takes a really heavy toll, and this is what it looks like 10 years later if you haven’t come out.” Arnaud’s portrayal of Scott captures that duality: the desire for connection and freedom clashing with the harsh reality of hiding who you are for too long.
As Heated Rivalry continues to captivate audiences, Arnaud is aware of the show’s growing popularity within the LGBTQ community. He confesses to being somewhat surprised by the overwhelming reception, especially given that the first screening revealed a fanbase largely made up of young women. “It was like an Olivia Rodrigo concert,” Arnaud quips. However, he’s quick to acknowledge that the show’s appeal cuts across boundaries, finding a particularly strong response from queer viewers who see themselves in Scott and Kip’s relationship.
The Romance, the Drama, and the Foursome Potential
And while the show’s steamy moments have sparked plenty of buzz, Arnaud is quick to point out that Heated Rivalry is more than just the sum of its intimate scenes. The chemistry between the characters isn’t just about sex—it’s about the vulnerability and emotional release that comes with finally being honest about your desires. “I think it’s so well integrated into the script, even if it is a bit of a curveball,” he explains. “Scott is just in the process of figuring that out.”
As for those steamy moments, Arnaud couldn’t help but joke about the series’ more intimate scenes, calling them “a different kind of porn category” when discussing Scott’s developing romance with Kip. “It’s cute, but I think he just goes along with it because he is emotionally ready for that,” he says, poking fun at the playful, yet intense nature of Scott’s emotional and physical journey. It’s clear Arnaud understands that the show isn’t just about the sex—it’s about the deeper connection that forms when people are free to embrace their true selves.
Scott’s Emotional Journey: Love Bombing or Genuine Feelings?
Arnaud’s reflection on his role, and the broader themes of Heated Rivalry, reveals a powerful message about the cost of repressing one’s true self. For many in the LGBTQ community, this mirrors their own journeys—one where the pressure to conform takes a visible toll. Arnaud’s honesty, both on-screen and in real life, provides a much-needed antidote to the stigmas that still surround bisexuality, proving that living authentically isn’t just a personal choice; it’s a necessity for survival, happiness, and growth.
Ultimately, Arnaud’s portrayal of Scott isn’t just about a sexy hockey romance. It’s about the freedom that comes when a character—and an actor—finally let go of the fear that has been holding them back for so long. It’s a story that resonates, whether you’re a fan of rom-coms, a lover of hockey, or someone who’s been there, trying to live authentically in a world that often makes it seem like too high a price to pay.
Source: Deadline