Hudson Williams Transitions from Gay Romance to Mystery Thriller in New Crave Series
Vancouver actor Hudson Williams, who rose to fame as Shane Hollander in the popular gay romantic hockey series Heated Rivalry, has embarked on a new television venture. Williams is now starring in the upcoming Crave Originals series Yaga, a half-hour mystery thriller that marks a significant departure from his previous role.
Star-Studded Cast and Production Details
Currently in production in Toronto, Yaga features an impressive ensemble of Canadian talent. Joining Williams are acclaimed actors Carrie-Anne Moss, known for her iconic role in The Matrix, Noah Reid from Schitt's Creek, and Clark Backo of Letterkenny fame. The series represents Crave's first original half-hour drama, consisting of eight episodes that promise to deliver suspense and intrigue.
Inspired by Slavic Folklore and Stage Success
The series is based on the hit play of the same name by Toronto playwright Kat Sandler, who also serves as writer and showrunner. Drawing from Slavic mythology, Yaga reimagines the enigmatic figure of Baba Yaga, a witch who can be both a terrifying villain and a wise helper. Sandler describes the adaptation as "reclaiming the wicked witch and reshaping her as an incendiary feminist anti-hero for our time."
Plot and Creative Vision
Set in a small coastal town, the mystery thriller follows private investigator Noah Reid as he investigates the disappearance of a wealthy young man portrayed by Hudson Williams. The investigation involves local detective Clark Backo and university professor Carrie-Anne Moss, whose character reportedly enjoys dating younger men. The series blends traditional whodunit elements with supernatural touches, described by Sandler as "propulsive, accessible, dark, funny and unapologetically bold."
Williams' casting represents a notable career shift following the massive success of Heated Rivalry, which was also produced under the Crave Originals banner. The actor has been in the spotlight recently due to the show's popularity, making his transition to a mystery thriller genre particularly noteworthy for fans and industry observers alike.
