Connor Storrie, 26, is embracing both the thrill and all the madness that comes with the rise of fame. The Heated Rivalry actor shared his journey in a new cover story for Vogue Adria, discussing love, perfectionism, and his exciting directorial debut.

Fame at a Tortoise’s Pace

Reflecting on his recent surge in popularity, Storrie admitted the spotlight hasn’t fully sunk in just quite yet.

“It feels great,” he said. “But honestly, I haven’t even had enough time to process it. I have this emotional delay—things hit me weeks later. Maybe that’s a good thing. If I thought about it all at once, I’d probably be overwhelmed.”

'Heated Rivalry' star Connor Storrie talks queerness, on-screen chemistry, and directing his first film in Vogue Adria.
Photo: Cass Bird/Vogue Adria

He credits mindfulness for keeping him grounded. “I try to be aware of what’s happening, who I’m speaking to, and what I’m doing. Limiting my online time helps too. Just because people have opinions doesn’t make them important.”

Staying Centered Through Creation

Storrie emphasizes the role of creativity in maintaining his focus. “If I go a few weeks without writing, making music, or planning films, I feel lost. That’s where I regain control. I’m not just playing a role, I’m building something real.”

Perfectionism, he explained, stems from both his competitive streak and early gymnastics training. “I like precision and dedication. Acting lets me trust others to guide me, but writing or directing is harder. I know exactly what I want, and that can be intimidating.”

A Directorial Debut on a Shoestring

Storrie’s first film, Transaction Planet, was shot entirely on an iPhone across Los Angeles with almost no budget.

'Heated Rivalry' star Connor Storrie talks queerness, on-screen chemistry, and directing his first film in Vogue Adria.
Photo: Cass Bird/Vogue Adria

“Limitations inspire me,” he said. “They make you focus on the story, on what people say and do. You find creative ways to make it happen. Being forced to adapt stretches your creativity in ways a big budget never could.”

Love, Darkness, and the Films That Shape Him

Though drawn to darker, moodier films reminiscent of Yorgos Lanthimos, Storrie also loves stories about human connection. “My writing is dark too, but it ends in love. I realized commercial films can have soul too—romantic comedies, for example, can be brilliant in their simplicity.”


On-Screen Chemistry and Queer Storytelling

Storrie’s chemistry with co-star Hudson Williams has been widely praised. “We genuinely understand each other, and I think that shows. Heated Rivalry isn’t just a love story—it’s about complex families, identity, and belonging. Jacob [Tierney] and Rachel Reid poured their energy into making these characters compelling.”

'Heated Rivalry' star Connor Storrie talks queerness, on-screen chemistry, and directing his first film in Vogue Adria.
Photo: Cass Bird/Vogue Adria

The show also makes strides in queer representation. “Rachel wrote this to address homophobia in hockey. Jacob wanted a gay love story with a happy ending, not tragedy. Receiving messages from viewers who feel seen as bisexual is incredibly moving.”

Looking Ahead

Storrie remains grounded despite fame and success. Between acting, writing, and directing, he’s charting a path that balances artistry with authenticity. “Love is cool again,” he said. “And it’s exciting to be part of stories that make people feel seen, celebrated, and connected.”