WHY IS EVERYONE OBSESSED WITH HEATED RIVALRY THESE DAYS
words by SANYEE BARJOGARÓN
Every now and then, there comes one show that absolutely captivates us from the moment it premieres. On June 2, 2002, it was The Wire, on September 24, 2004, it was Lost. The Walking Dead, The Vampire Diaries, Game of Thrones, and the recent, Euphoria—all honourable mentions of pop culture relevance. But this era of television has brought us something new, bold, and absolutely HEATED in every sense of the word.
What started off as a popular book series, transformed into a masterful adaption that became an instant phenomenon, winning the praise of the girls and the gays—and we couldn’t be happier! On November 25, 2025, HBO premiered crave original’s steamy hockey player romance Heated Rivalry, based on the second book of Rachel Reid’s Game Changers book series. But beyond the steamy, jaw-dropping sex scenes, the yearning, and the angst—what stands out the most are its actors, and what the story allows us to experience.
all images courtesy of HBO MAX, photography SABRINA LANTOS
Hudson Williams and Connor Storrie are absolutely brilliant in their roles, portraying more than just the physical. Their chemistry shines through throughout the season and beyond, making it a spectacle to witness the intimacy between their characters, Ilya (Storrie) and Shane (Williams). Director Jacob Tierney has done a jaw-dropping job in the execution of this story.
The TV series adaptation translated some themes from Rachel Reid’s story that are not only relatable, but relevant when it comes to the realm of sports, and being someone who struggles with coming to terms with their sexuality, embracing it, and understanding that love is a celebratory right that should be given equally to all. It’s a powerful thing highlighted very subtly, which makes every episode compelling, heart wrenching, and enlightening.
On the surface, it may give a glimpse of the sad reality, but the further the story develops the more hopefulness there is, inviting the viewers to consider of how well things can turn out when coming to terms with who you really are, and having someone by your side that understands you, and wants the same things as you. This is where the bravo goes not only to Connor and Hudson, who portray so much in the little details of their acting, but the intimacy coordination as well. This isn’t merely a show about two of the sexiest hockey players secretly hooking up and releasing some heated tension. It’s a riveting story that explores passion and the pain of not being able to act on what the heart wants comfortably; it is a story many can relate to. It is rare to have a show that really hits all the points that need to be made, and stay true to the story’s identity — a truly outstanding job done from both cast, directors and crew.
Since its premiere, it’s been a wave of support, relentless hype and downing out the mouth for every episode release. For this show to have claimed a 10/10 rating on an episode in television history speaks volumes about how a queer story, when made with love and intent, can travel far — reaching the right audience and resonating with those who truly understand what’s being said. It’s sexy, it’s honest, it’s straight to the point, and intimate in every possible way.
That being said, season 1 was just the beginning. We cannot wait for the seasons 2 and 3, there’s much more to come. Will you be watching?