Jacob Tierney and Brendan Brady have launched the Irina Foundation. The Heated Rivalry producers announced the fund on September 29 to support LGBTQIA2S+ and underserved communities through sports and arts programs.
The foundation will give grants and work with established nonprofit organizations that already run qualifying programs. Its aim is to help people take part in welcoming activities, build relationships and support their mental well-being.
Why is it called the Irina Foundation?
The name comes from Rachel Reid’s Game Changers books, where hockey players Shane Hollander and Ilya Rozanov create a foundation named after Ilya’s mother, Irina. The real fund takes that idea beyond the fictional story.
Tierney and Brady co-founded Accent Aigu Entertainment, the company behind the series. Tierney is its creator, writer and director, and both are executive producers. Jayme Alter Wilson, the company’s president and another executive producer, says the foundation aims to turn readers’ and viewers’ love for Reid’s characters into practical support.
Who is supporting the launch?
Kate Spade New York is the fund’s first donor, and Harry’s is an early supporter. An advisory board will guide the foundation. The launch announcement says more details will follow.
The people and identity behind the Irina Foundation
3 screenshotsWhat is next for Heated Rivalry?
Hudson Williams and Connor Storrie play Shane and Ilya. Season 2 is in production and planned for spring 2027. Its new cast includes Brendan Morgan, David Tomlinson, Gerry Dee, Michelle Mylett and Lauren Chan.
Season 1 is streaming on Crave in Canada and HBO Max in the United States. The second season has been announced for those services, but its episodes are not available yet and no exact premiere date has been announced.
