Heated Rivalry star, Connor Storrie, hosted Saturday Night Live for the first episode of the show’s 51st season. On the success of his performance of Ilya Rozanov, the Texas-born actor took the stage, showcasing his hard-hitting comedy skills in various sketches, including a character he invented from his days as a clown before his famous role.

Storrie also brought out Team USA hockey stars, Hillary Knight and the Hughes brothers, for a cameo during his monologue. Hillary made the iconic joke about the brothers saying how “It was going to be just us, but we thought we’d invite the guys too.”

Storrie was also able to show off his comedy skills and a sketch that he pitched himself called “The Stripper Sketch”. He played an exotic male dancer who was injured, yet hired for a bachelorette party. The dancer also tries to perform while injured after being hit by a car on the way to the venue. 

Fans absolutely lost their mind laughing at this sketch. Conner, himself, was proud that an idea from his days of learning comedy years ago, finally was put out there.

Sophomore Economics major, Javier Santos, describes his feelings about watching his comedic skills at work. 

“He is absolutely hilarious,” Santos Said. “I’ve seen comedic actors all the time, but this takes the cake!”

Hudson Williams, Storrie’s co-star, who plays Shane Hollander, also made a cameo in the ice skating sketch. Fans went wild seeing them back together again after the famous show. 

Sophomore Graphic Design major Gracie Sokoloff shared how she, among many other fans, loved Conner’s performance.

“Something I love about his comedic acting is his incorporation of multiple Stanislavski acting techniques along with his knowledge from his known past of clown schooling,” Sokoloff said. “I’m someone who went to a performing arts school in high school and studied many acting techniques. It was clear he displayed clear consideration of method and physical acting. He over-exaggerated his verbal and physical movements to portray moments of sarcasm and absurdity. I think this is a very important method to be used in comedic acting, and I respect his choices he made within the text.”

At the end of his performance, Storrie thanked the cast and crew who helped take part in this humorous episode. Hudson Williams gave Conner a hug as he broke down in tears, finally accomplishing his dream of making people laugh

Many fans have said before that they wouldn’t be surprised if Storrie skyrocketed into even more fame after this iconic episode and role in “Heated Rivalry.”

“I think these performances boosted his name, but after his success in Crave Canada’s ‘Heated Rivalry,’ it seems to be one of those moments when a rising actor will forever be associated with their career-launching series,” Sokoloff said.

The series has made headlines across the country, surpassing 10.6 million views, allowing the show to be HBO Max’s most-watched scripted series ever. 

“I love that show,” Santos said. “Not only for its story, but for the representation as well. The show does a great job of highlighting athletes who may hide their sexuality due to possible backlash from teams, brands, friends, family, etc. I’d recommend it to anyone to be honest.” 

Conner Storrie’s impact as an artist has changed lives for many people, inspiring audiences through his authenticity, humor, and storytelling, making fans adore him even more.