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Margaret Cho Says ICE Fears Led Her to Decline Breakout ‘Heated Rivalry’ Role

Her explanation highlights how border enforcement worries can shape casting in cross-border TV.

Overview

  • Cho, who disclosed Thursday on the I Never Liked You podcast, said she turned down the Canada-shot pilot because she feared ICE detention linked to her outspoken criticism of President Donald Trump.
  • She identified the series as Heated Rivalry on HBO Max and Crave and said passing on the part still “kills” her after watching and hosting rewatch parties.
  • Cho said she has asked the show’s team about joining Season 2, with trade outlets reporting filming is scheduled to begin this summer.
  • She indicated she had been in line to play Shane Hollander’s mother, a role that aired with Christina Chang in the part.
  • The episode underscores a wider reality in North American TV production where U.S. performers weigh international travel for Canadian shoots against perceived immigration-enforcement risks.