Hudson Williams’ arrival in Toronto on Thursday sparked excitement along King Street, with fans eagerly capturing the moment on their phones. Crowds gathered outside the TIFF Lightbox, some waiting up to 12 hours for a chance to see the “Heated Rivalry” star and secure a ticket to his premiere.

Williams was in Toronto for a special event and the debut of his upcoming project, “Yaga,” a series inspired by Slavic folklore with a focus on mystery and sensuality, set to start streaming in October. Fans can expect a treat as Williams takes on dual roles in the show.

Filmed earlier this year on Vancouver Island, “Yaga” follows a private investigator on a quest in a small coastal town to find a missing heir of a wealthy fishery family, leading to the discovery of hidden secrets. The series boasts a stellar Canadian cast, including Noah Reid, Carrie-Anne Moss, Clark Backo, Sheila McCarthy, and Megan Follows.

During the world premiere at TIFF, Williams’ co-star Moss, when asked for advice for him, simply stated that he was already excelling in his role. The event highlighted not only the frenzy surrounding Hudson Williams but also the pride in the Canadian talent showcased in the production.

Reid, who plays a private investigator in “Yaga,” shared his thoughts on the collaborative and supportive nature of the Canadian creative community, emphasizing the focus on creating quality content together. Backo, co-starring with Reid, echoed the sentiment, noting the growing interest and investment in Canadian projects.

“Yaga” originated from a play by Kat Sandler at Toronto’s Tarragon Theatre in 2019, embracing its Canadian roots with fervor. Follows expressed enthusiasm for Canadian projects, emphasizing the need for diverse, unique storytelling from the country.

Moss, playing a key role in the series, was drawn to the project by its compelling material and the opportunity to work with the talented cast. “Yaga” is set to premiere on Crave in the upcoming month, showcasing a blend of mystery, talent, and Canadian pride.