Prime Minister Mark Carney had an unexpectedly light-hearted and viral moment in Ottawa this week while meeting Hudson Williams, the breakout star of the hit Crave television series Heated Rivalry.
The interaction took place at Prime Time, Canada’s annual screen and media industry conference, where Carney joined cultural leaders and creators to celebrate the success of the homegrown series. During a red-carpet photo opportunity, Williams presented the prime minister with a Team Canada-themed jacket from the show, prompting laughter and an easy exchange between the two.
When photographers suggested the pair pose together, Carney jokingly encouraged Williams to “do the leg thing,” referencing a playful pose from the series. The moment quickly spread online, earning smiles across social media. Later, while introducing the panel discussion, Carney referred to Williams as “my new best friend,” drawing applause from the audience.
The event also featured the show’s creator and director Jacob Tierney, who reflected on the unexpected cultural reach of the series and its resonance with audiences in Canada and abroad.
In his remarks, Carney struck a more serious note, highlighting the importance of Canadian storytelling and inclusion. He emphasized that creativity and cultural expression remain essential at a time when diversity and human rights face challenges globally.
The appearance underscored the growing influence of Canadian television on the world stage — and showed a rare, relaxed side of the prime minister engaging with pop culture in real time.