Off Campus creator and cast talk comparisons to smash hit Heated Rivalry

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I’ve already seen everyone comparing Amazon’s new show, Off Campus, to Heated Rivalry – which, honestly, is unavoidable given how huge that series was! But the showrunner, Louisa Levy, has been saying there are actually some really big differences between the two, so it’s not just a straight-up copy.

Readers who enjoy this type of story are sure to love this adaptation of Elle Kennedy’s popular book, particularly given the positive reception to the recent adaptation of Rachel Reid’s novel.

This steamy romance between rivals on opposing hockey teams sparked a growing interest in both sports romances and LGBTQ+ love stories.

As a fan, I heard Levy explain that while both shows are in the same genre, that’s pretty much where the comparisons stop. They really don’t have much else in common, apparently!

Levy explained they were already filming their show when they first learned about this series. They were eager to see it even before it came out, and they especially appreciate that it’s a love story centered around queer characters – something they feel is wonderful.

Honestly, what I really appreciated about this show is its unique voice. We need more content that feels genuinely different, and while it shares some surface-level similarities with other hockey-themed romances, that’s where the comparison stops. It’s fantastic that it can carve out its own identity within that genre, and I loved that about it.

The actors were big fans of the show as well. Mika Abdalla and Josh Heuston, who play Allie and Justin, both enjoyed watching ‘Heated Rivalry’ and are excited that ‘Off Campus’ is being compared to it.

“I watched it all literally in one day,” Abdalla says, “I was obsessed with it. It’s amazing.”

I only saw the first part of it,” Heuston says. “I still need to finish it, but honestly, being compared to that show is amazing, isn’t it?

Levy thinks sports romances are popular because they show the emotional side of athletes, moving beyond the tough exterior often associated with players like those in hockey. These stories reveal the vulnerability hidden beneath the ‘bad boy’ image.

Sports, particularly men’s sports, often present an exaggerated image of strength and toughness. But what’s really compelling, especially in stories, is getting to see beyond that facade – to explore the vulnerability and emotions of the people underneath, like looking beyond a hockey player’s gear to the person within.

She explained that hockey has a bit of a rebellious image, which she finds really appealing for romance stories. The fact that players are allowed to fight adds to this ‘bad boy’ vibe that makes it so interesting.

Jalen Thomas Brooks, who plays John Tucker on the show The Pitt, explained that it’s more than just a sexy drama – it has an important message to share.

The audition scripts really resonated with me, particularly because of the emotional core Louisa Levy and Gina Fattore brought to the characters, especially through the storyline of Hannah and Garrett.

This show wasn’t just typical young adult or overly focused on romance. It actually addressed important themes about rediscovering intimacy, and conveyed a hopeful message that things aren’t set in stone. I really connected with that message and wanted to be involved.

You can start watching Off Campus on Prime Video beginning May 13, 2026. New Amazon Prime members can enjoy a 30-day free trial.

Don’t miss out on ‘Add Off Campus’! Add it to your watchlist on the TopMob: What to Watch app. Download the app today for daily TV suggestions, exclusive features, and more.

Authors

Jess Bacon

Jess Bacon is a freelance writer who reviews and interviews people about film, TV, and pop culture – she loves everything from Marvel and Star Wars to how women are portrayed in media. Her writing appears in major publications like Rolling Stone, GQ, and The Guardian. She’s interviewed many well-known actors, including Zendaya and Brie Larson, and is currently working on her first non-fiction book. When she’s not busy analyzing movies or internet trends, she’s dedicated to her writing.

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2026-05-13 14:09