Margaret Cho Explains Why She Passed on 'Heated Rivalry' Role

Margaret Cho recently opened up about a major opportunity she let slip away.

The 57-year-old comedian and actress told Matteo Lane and Nick Smith on their podcast "I Never Liked You" that she had to pass on a role in the Crave hit "Heated Rivalry," the acclaimed LGBTQ+ hockey drama. The reason? Immigration concerns tied to the current political climate.

"Last year, I got a pilot script for a show that I really loved, but it shot in Canada, and I was so scared because I'm so vocal about hating ICE and hating this administration," Cho explained. "I was like, I will get detained at the border and I will be put in ICE detention if I go."

The bisexual performer said she wrestled with the decision extensively, consulting with various people before ultimately declining. "I was super upset about it, and I said 'no.' And it was Heated Rivalry."

Though she stepped away from the project, Cho hasn't been able to stay away from the series entirely. She's watched the show since its release and even hosted viewing parties. "I hosted some re-watch parties and it kills me. Like, it kills me, and it's all because of Trump," she said.

Reflecting on what could have been, Cho acknowledged the appeal of the role. "The pilot was beautiful, and I was like, I want to do this."

Her regrets may not be final, however. Cho revealed she has since reached out to producers about potentially joining the cast for season two, which begins filming in August and is set to premiere in April 2027. "We'll see," she said of the possibility.

The series continues to attract high-profile interest, with former First Lady Dr. Jill Biden recently making a significant donation to secure a cameo appearance in the upcoming season.