Warning: Spoilers ahead! As a cis woman unfamiliar with ice hockey, except for TikTok’s nickname of ‘boy aquariums,’ I found myself among the many women-identifying viewers who binge-watched the first five episodes of the series Heated Rivalry (2025–ongoing) in under 24 hours.
In just four weeks, this Canadian gay hockey romance drama, based on Rachel Reid’s Game Changers (2019–) series, has soared in popularity and received critical acclaim, boasting a 98% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. The show has inspired countless memes filled with humor and longing, drawing even more viewers.
Heated Rivalry features a striking cast and a compelling storyline. Newcomers Hudson Williams and Connor Storrie deliver standout performances that break away from Hollywood’s usual casting. The plot unfolds as a slow-burning romance full of desire, respectful yet passionate scenes, and intense drama, available on Crave and HBO Max. It’s a welcome addition to queer narratives, especially after Netflix canceled Boots (2025), which portrayed a gay teen’s struggle in the Marine Corps.
Williams plays Shane Hollander, a Canadian ice hockey player, opposite Storrie’s Ilya Rozanov, his Russian adversary. The series traces their journey from rivals to lovers, as they navigate the challenges of hypermasculinity and homophobia in their sport. Their secret meetings and hidden identities highlight the pressures of compulsory heterosexuality from society and family.
Scott Hunter, portrayed by François Arnaud, is another key figure in the series, exploring his own queer identity. His on-ice kiss with partner Kip (Robbie G.K.) after winning the Major League Hockey Cup is a pivotal moment, resonating with fans and setting the stage for the season finale at Hollander’s summer retreat.
The show’s portrayal of explicit consent and queer happiness, rather than trauma, has resonated deeply with its audience. As we look forward to two more seasons, this series offers a much-needed dose of hope and optimism at the end of a challenging year. While we await future episodes, the current fan community provides solace and camaraderie.
