The Olympic torch relay has taken a vibrant turn as actors Hudson Williams and Connor Storrie served as official torchbearers in Feltre, Italy, on January 25, 2026. This event is part of the lead-up to the 2026 Olympic Winter Games in Milano Cortina, which will officially commence on February 6, 2026. The relay began in November 2025 and aims to connect communities through the spirit of the Olympics.
Dressed in matching all-white outfits, the duo carried the flame through the streets, captivating locals and visitors alike. A video shared on the Olympics’ official Instagram page showcased the enthusiastic reception they received from the crowd. As one onlooker expressed, “Italy loves you a lot,” Hudson placed his hand over his heart and responded, “I love Italy.” Connor echoed the sentiment, noting, “It’s a lot of people!” reflecting on the overwhelming support they experienced during the event.
The significance of this appearance extends beyond the torch relay. Hudson and Connor star in the popular series adapted from Rachel Reid’s novel, where their characters, Shane Hollander and Ilya Rozanov, competed in the 2014 Sochi Olympics. While they may not be competing for medals themselves, the symbolic nature of the relay resonated deeply with Hudson, who exclaimed, “This is crazy,” capturing the essence of the moment.
As their fame has surged since the debut of the series, both actors have navigated the challenges that come with increased public attention. Hudson shared his experience during an interview on Live from E! on January 11, 2026, stating, “I’m not overwhelmed by the grand scale, but I’m more overwhelmed about how many emails I have to get through.” This comment illustrates the balancing act of managing newfound popularity while maintaining personal well-being.
Connor has also emphasized the importance of staying grounded amid the excitement. In a conversation with The Hollywood Reporter published on January 9, 2026, he mentioned the need to limit his screen time to avoid becoming overly consumed by online attention. “I try to stay off of comments and too much online stuff because our algorithms are so geared toward whatever you intake,” he explained. “That’s not healthy and that’s not human to only look at yourself.”
As the torch relay progresses, Hudson and Connor’s participation highlights the intersection of entertainment and sports, showcasing how cultural narratives can intertwine with global events like the Olympics. With the 2026 Olympic Winter Games on the horizon, the excitement continues to build, drawing in athletes and fans from around the world.
The event in Feltre is just one of many stops in a relay that symbolizes Olympic values of unity and peace. As the flame travels across Italy, it brings together communities and encourages a shared celebration of sportsmanship, culture, and the Olympic spirit.
With the opening ceremony less than two weeks away, the anticipation for the 2026 Winter Olympics is palpable. Hudson and Connor’s role in this historic event serves as a reminder of the power of sports to foster connections and inspire people worldwide.
