An old photo of Hudson Williams resurfaced online after a swastika was reportedly drawn on his face in Sharpie. Sources say it happened while he was still in high school during a Canada “campout” involving underage drinking, and that it does not reflect his be
An old photo of Hudson Williams is back in circulation, and the internet isn’t letting it go quietly.
The 25-year-old Heated Rivalry breakout star is at the center of renewed controversy after photos surfaced over the weekend showing a swastika drawn on his face in Sharpie.
What’s fueling the latest pushback now isn’t just the image—it’s the account of how it allegedly happened. Sources speaking about the resurfaced photo say it was taken while Hudson was still in high school in Canada during an annual “campout” marked by partying. underage drinking. and people scribbling on each other’s shirts and bodies with Sharpie.
Those sources also claim Hudson had “no idea what was being drawn on his face at the time. ” describing the offensive symbol as the result of other intoxicated teens drawing inappropriate images in an attempt to get laughs and shock reactions. They characterize the moment as “dumb things” done by kids under the influence. adding that Hudson is “keenly aware” the behavior is inexcusable.
A friend likewise weighed in, saying: “The markings do not and have never reflected Hudson‘s beliefs, values, or character.”
The accounts going along with the resurfaced photos also say Hudson understands the hurt and disappointment the picture has caused and deeply regrets it. The same sources add that Hudson does not condone or support the markings drawn onto him and recognizes how serious the symbol is.
As the controversy plays out, Hudson also appeared to keep life moving in the spotlight. He recently gave his longtime girlfriend, Katelyn Larson, a special shoutout while on stage at the 2026 Canadian Screen Awards.
His castmates’ schedules have also shifted: the source material notes that Heated Rivalry actors—including Hudson—turned down an appearance on Variety‘s Actors on Actors series.
Hudson Williams Heated Rivalry swastika photo Sharpie Katelyn Larson 2026 Canadian Screen Awards Canada high school campout controversy