A breakout moment years in the making
Canadian actor François Arnaud is having a major moment. After years of steady work across film and television, he’s now capturing global attention for his role as newly out hockey player Scott Hunter in the hit series Heated Rivalry.
But long before the buzz surrounding the Crave and HBO Max drama, Arnaud was already close to a career-defining breakthrough. In a recent podcast appearance, he revealed he once auditioned for a role in one of the most talked-about film franchises of the last decade.
The role that almost changed everything
Speaking on Shut Up Evan, hosted by Evan Ross Katz, Arnaud shared that he tested for the film adaptation of Fifty Shades of Grey.
Although he didn’t confirm the exact character, fans quickly speculated that his audition aligned with Christian Grey the brooding billionaire ultimately portrayed by Jamie Dornan. Given Arnaud’s look and screen presence, it’s not hard to imagine him in the role that helped define a generation of steamy mainstream cinema.
At the time, Arnaud admitted he wondered whether he was ready for the level of fame that would come with such a project. The franchise’s massive success would have meant instant global recognition—and intense scrutiny.
francois arnaud is a rare case of a famous man opening his mouth and actually becoming hotter with every word he spills
— лестатся | siamese fighter fish (@yamashitskaya) January 28, 2026
Why missing out became a blessing
Looking back, Arnaud now sees losing the role as a positive turning point.
He explained that while he wanted the opportunities a blockbuster could bring, he also valued maintaining a sense of normalcy and real relationships. The potential pressure and sudden fame felt overwhelming in hindsight.
Arnaud, who publicly came out as bisexual in 2020, said he’s grateful his career unfolded more gradually. That slower rise allowed him to grow as an actor and define success on his own terms rather than chasing celebrity status.
A new kind of success with Heated Rivalry
Instead of instant superstardom, Arnaud eventually found a project that resonated deeply with audiences and the LGBTQ+ community. His role in Heated Rivalry explores identity, masculinity, and queer relationships in the high-stakes world of professional hockey.
The show has quickly built a devoted fanbase, and Arnaud’s performance has become a standout. He’s also expressed concern for younger co-stars experiencing sudden fame, noting that rapid attention can be overwhelming without the right support.
For Arnaud, the journey has reshaped how he measures success. Rather than focusing on fame or awards, he now values meaningful work and authentic storytelling.
Redefining fame and career goals
In his interview, Arnaud reflected on how early career expectations centered on becoming a movie star. When that didn’t happen immediately, it forced him to reconsider what he truly wanted from acting.
Over time, he shifted away from chasing outcomes and instead focused on the craft itself. That mindset change ultimately led him to projects that feel more aligned with his identity and values.
It’s a perspective that resonates with many working actors navigating an industry where visibility and pressure often go hand in hand.
A surreal Oprah moment
Beyond career reflections, Arnaud also shared a memorable celebrity encounter: meeting Oprah Winfrey. He described the moment as surreal and unexpectedly warm, joking that the interaction made him feel like he should be walking around with a crown.
The story highlights just how far he’s come from auditioning for blockbuster roles to building a respected and evolving career on his own terms.
Why fans are paying attention now
With Heated Rivalry gaining momentum, Arnaud is finally receiving the kind of recognition that once felt just out of reach. But this time, it arrives with perspective and experience.
His candid reflections on fame, missed opportunities, and personal growth offer a refreshing look at the realities of working in Hollywood especially as a queer actor navigating both mainstream and LGBTQ+ spaces.
Sometimes, the roles you don’t get shape your path just as much as the ones you do.