Connor Storrie is enjoying newfound attention due to his lead role in HBO’s hockey romance Heated Rivalry, but some things are still private. In a new interview with Vulture, the 25-year-old discussed speculation surrounding his private life since the hit show’s launch.
Connor portrays Ilya Grigoryevich Rozanov, the Russian-born captain of the hockey team, the Boston Raiders, who becomes entangled in a romance with his biggest sports competition. The LGBTQIA romance series has found itself in the midst of a years-long debate over who can portray characters from the community.
Connor Storrie is remaining vague about his sexuality
The discourse rose to prominence in the late 2010s. Several LGBTQIA film and TV fans highlighted the overwhelming presence of straight actors portraying gay characters. A majority of SAG-AFTRA actors have reported that they believe the industry discriminates against LGBTQIA people. A significant number also believed coming out would affect their ability to be hired for roles. Many have highlighted the praise heterosexual actors receive for their “bravery” in portraying such roles, whereas countless actors remain closeted.
Per Vulture, Connor reaffirmed the need for boundaries with his newfound fame. While viewers have been scrolling through his socials, many have asked if his sexuality reflects that of Ilya’s.
“I feel honored to be able to bring someone to life that so many people feel seen, understood, and represented by,” Connor said. The actor continued by refusing to state what his own sexuality was.
“I think that transcends whoever I’m sleeping with in my real life.”
The claim that those in the community should portray LGBTQIA characters has also been met with significant criticism. Several critics of the idea have noted that it would force actors to come out against their will. Others also underlined that actors shouldn’t have to disclose their sexuality to homophobic audiences and become subject to abuse. This may be the (very valid) reason why Connor wants to keep some things for himself.
TELL US – DO YOU THINK LGBTQIA ROLES SHOULD BE PREDOMINANTLY PORTRAYED BY LGBTQIA ACTORS?
This story originally appeared on Realitytea
