Comments made by Heated Rivalry star Hudson Williams about Victoria are drawing attention online after the Canadian actor described the city in colourful terms during an appearance in Paris over the weekend.
Williams was attending a Balenciaga fashion show when he was asked about his recent work and filming schedule. During the conversation, he referenced time spent on Vancouver Island while shooting the upcoming television series Yaga.
“I was filming a show and it’s very stabilizing,” Williams said, before adding: “It’s like 30 minutes away from Vancouver — dead as f***, old people.”
@culted I have nothing else to say #hudsonwilliams #cultedpfw #heatedrivalry #fyp #shanehollander
The brief remark has since circulated widely on social media, sparking mixed reactions from viewers, with some agreeing while others say the comment misses the mark.
Victoria has long been the subject of similar jokes about its demographics and slower pace of life compared to Vancouver.
The city has often been referred to, sometimes jokingly, as a place for “the newlywed and nearly dead,” reflecting the reputation as a popular retirement destination.
Williams has been spending time on Vancouver Island while filming the eight-episode mystery thriller Yaga for Crave, which also stars Noah Reid and Carrie-Ann Moss.
Earlier this week, the actor was also spotted at Victoria International Airport by a local fan after returning from New York, where he had appeared on Saturday Night Live alongside Heated Rivalry co-star Connor Storrie.
“He’s the sweetest, he’s so down to earth,” Emille said of the encounter.
According to the fan, Williams stopped to chat briefly and pose for photos. Emille also creates Heated Rivalry-themed beaded earrings inspired by characters from the show.
