The Olympic torch relay reached a vibrant milestone on January 25, 2026, as actors Hudson Williams and Connor Storrie became official torchbearers in Feltre, Italy. This event marks a significant lead-up to the 2026 Olympic Winter Games in Milano Cortina, which will commence with its opening ceremony on February 6. The relay, which began in November, aims to unite communities and celebrate the spirit of the Games.
Williams and Storrie, both stars of the popular series “Heated Rivalry,” participated in the festivities dressed in coordinated all-white outfits. Their presence drew cheers from enthusiastic locals, with one onlooker expressing, “Italy loves you a lot.” In response, Hudson placed his hand over his heart and declared, “I love Italy.” Connor echoed the sentiment, remarking on the sheer number of spectators, saying, “It’s a lot of people!” Their connection to the event reflects not only their roles in the series but also the broader excitement surrounding the Olympics.
The series, inspired by Rachel Reid‘s novel, features Williams and Storrie as characters who compete during the 2014 Sochi Olympics. While they are not athletes in real life, the symbolism of the torch relay resonated deeply with them. Hudson expressed his amazement at the event, exclaiming, “This is crazy,” highlighting the emotional weight of the occasion.
In the wake of their rising fame from “Heated Rivalry,” both actors have navigated their new public personas. Hudson shared his experience on January 11 during an interview with Zuri Hall on “Live from E!” He mentioned feeling overwhelmed by the volume of emails he receives, saying, “That inbox keeps filling up, messages fill up and that drives me crazy.”
Connor, on the other hand, has adopted strategies to stay grounded amid the attention. In a conversation with The Hollywood Reporter on January 9, he emphasized the importance of limiting his online presence. “I try to stay off of comments and too much online stuff because our algorithms… are so geared toward whatever you intake,” he explained. “That’s not healthy and that’s not human to only look at yourself.”
As the countdown to the 2026 Winter Olympics continues, Williams and Storrie’s participation in the torch relay encapsulates the spirit of camaraderie and celebration that the Olympics aim to foster. The relay not only symbolizes the journey athletes will undertake but also brings together diverse communities in a shared experience of unity and excitement.
For those eager to witness the upcoming Games, the torch relay serves as a reminder of the dedication and passion that athletes and fans alike bring to this prestigious international event. Keep an eye on the festivities as they unfold, showcasing not just sports, but also the cultural tapestry that the Olympics represent.
