What to Know About Obsession-Worthy Gay Hockey Romance Heated Rivalry

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When was the last time your heart melted while watching ice hockey?

Since its debut on November 28th, the new Canadian series Heated Rivalry has been gaining popularity across North America. The show centers on two male hockey players who fall in love, but their relationship is complicated by plenty of on- and off-ice drama throughout the season.

The story begins with Shane Hollander meeting Ilya Rozanov, another promising athlete, just before a big international competition. Ilya’s confident attitude clashes with Shane’s more reserved personality, but there’s an immediate connection between them.

The show’s creator, Jacob Tierney, explained to Toronto Life that simply making a gay love story within the world of hockey feels like a bold move. He adapted the series from Rachel Reid’s popular queer romance novels, Game Changers. However, Tierney wanted to deliver a genuinely happy ending, avoiding unnecessary twists on traditional romance storylines.

If you haven’t discovered the “Heated Rivalry” competition yet and are curious about what it is, how to watch, and whether it’s worth the hype, you’ve come to the right place! We have all the information you need.

What is Heated Rivalry about?

Heated Rivalry takes place in Montreal, a city obsessed with professional ice hockey—Canada’s most popular winter sport (lacrosse is the summer favorite). The story focuses on Shane Hollander and Ilya Rozanov, two competing players who find themselves attracted to each other despite their on-ice rivalry.

Despite facing teasing and insensitive comments from teammates, the athletes keep their new relationship hidden. Over the next eight years, their bond strengthens as they each pursue their individual goals.

Although it might seem like a typical drama, Heated Rivalry comes from Jacob Tierney, who’s skilled at blending different genres. He was a co-creator and actor (playing the eccentric Glen) on the funny and surprisingly sweet show Letterkenny, and he also directed the first two seasons of Shoresy, its even more emotional spin-off about hockey.

Who are the stars of Heated Rivalry?

Hudson Williams, 24, and Connor Storrie, 25, play secret lovers Shane and Ilya.

Williams has primarily worked as an actor in Canada, where he also pursued basketball and mixed martial arts. Storrie, who is a gymnast from Texas, played a significant part in the 2024 film Joker: Folie à Deux.

The actors hadn’t met before, but their instant connection during auditions was what landed them the roles.

Tierney told Xtra in November that after reading the final pages together, everyone agreed it was finished. They reacted strongly, saying they wanted to be rid of the remaining material immediately. According to Tierney, the connection between the characters was incredibly strong.

According to Williams, Shane is a bit reserved, which lets Ilya come across as more outgoing and lively. This contrast between their personalities is a key element of the story.

Storrie explained that he immediately felt a strong connection with Williams when they first read together, saying it was clear they shared a similar understanding.

Whether Shane and Ilya are texting from afar, sharing a look in a busy space, or involved in the show’s intimate moments—all carefully planned like a dance, according to Tierney—the chemistry between them is undeniable and fills the screen.

During a discussion about whether the actors needed to share personal details related to the gay romance in Heated Rivalry, Tierney quickly stated that it wasn’t relevant.

He explained that it’s illegal to ask actors about their sexuality during the casting process. Instead, you have to assess their passion and dedication. He was particularly impressed with these two actors because they immediately expressed their commitment to the project and their desire to tell a genuine and realistic story. He felt they delivered exceptional performances.

Was Heated Rivalry a book first?

As a huge fan of Rachel Reid’s Game Changers series, I’m so excited for Heated Rivalry, the second book! And from what I’ve been hearing on #BookTok, things are only going to get even more intense as the series continues – I can barely wait!

Tierney shared with Toronto Life that they first came across Rachel’s books during the pandemic. A friend recommended trying out steamy gay romance novels, and Tierney was immediately captivated by Game Changers. It wasn’t just a lighthearted indulgence, though; Tierney genuinely enjoyed the book’s engaging, sexy, funny, and heartwarming story.

He found Reid on Instagram and discovered they both loved the show Letterkenny. She also seemed excited about his enthusiastic ideas for a new project.

Honestly, I’m completely blown away by how perfectly they’ve brought this story to life! I was so worried about whether it would live up to everything I imagined, but I have a feeling – a really good feeling – that it’s going to surpass even the wildest dreams of fans like me. I just know it!

Is Heated Rivalry based on a true story?

Although the books are works of fiction, the author, a dedicated hockey fan, drew inspiration from real players. He combined traits of flamboyant European players to create the character of Ilya, and based Shane on the quieter, more traditional team captains.

When asked how she created such realistic and sensual content for two male characters, Reid jokingly responded, “I don’t think research is necessary when you’re constantly imagining it!”

Where can I watch Heated Rivalry?

I’m so excited about Heated Rivalry! It was originally made for Crave in Canada, but thankfully it’s also available on HBO Max. If you’re watching, new episodes come out every Friday, building up to the season one finale on December 26th. Don’t miss it!

And get more recommendations for bingeable shows adapted from books right here: 

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2025-12-05 14:19