EXCLUSIVE: The steamy and critically acclaimed series Heated Rivalry is set to return for a second season, with Canadian streamer Crave officially greenlighting the continuation of the LGBTQ+ ice hockey drama. HBO Max remains on board, securing rights for the U.S. and Australia, while expanding its reach in Europe, Asia, and Latin America through a new deal with distributor Sphere Abacus.
The Warner Bros. Discovery-owned platform has acquired the rights to both seasons for regions including Europe (excluding the UK, Ireland, Spain, and Turkey), Asia, and Latin America. Additionally, Neon/Sky New Zealand is returning as a partner for the upcoming season. The HBO Max agreement in Asia covers Singapore, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Thailand, the Philippines, Macau, Sri Lanka, and Nepal.
Global Phenomenon and Cultural Impact
Heated Rivalry quickly established itself as a flagship series for Crave, earning accolades from reviewers as one of the most significant LGBTQ+ shows on television. Since its debut, the series has grown its viewership by nearly 400% in initial seven-day streams, according to data from mParticle and Amazon Channels.
The show has become a cultural lightning rod in Canada and a social media sensation across North America and Europe. Fan edits, reaction threads, and behind-the-scenes clips have flooded platforms, with the series trending as a top three topic on X in Canada during its premiere weekend.
“Heated Rivalry represents the very best of what Canadian creators can deliver: Rich characters, compelling drama, and a world audiences want to live in,” said Justin Stockman, VP Content and Programming at Crave parent Bell Media.
The Story Behind the Series
Created by Canadian writer-director-producer Jacob Tierney, Heated Rivalry is based on Rachel Reid’s best-selling book series Game Changers. The six-episode, one-hour romantic drama follows the lives of rival hockey players Shane Hollander and Ilya Rozanov, portrayed by Hudson Williams and Connor Storrie, respectively. Their secret romantic relationship unfolds over eight years, challenging their competitive world.
Tierney, alongside executive producer Brendan Brady, expressed gratitude for the series’ success: “Watching our show become an international phenomenon has been extraordinary. We’re profoundly grateful to everyone that has been on this journey with us. Being renewed for a second season so early is a true honour, and we can’t wait to bring you even more of what you love.”
Production and Distribution
Heated Rivalry is produced by Tierney and Brady’s Accent Aigu Entertainment in association with Crave, with support from the Canada Media Fund and the Bell Fund. The series is distributed internationally by Sphere Abacus, a company owned by Canadian producer Sphere Media, which also handles programming from Bell, a stakeholder in the UK-based company.
For Bell Media, the production team includes Alison Korogyi as Senior Production Executive, Sarah Fowlie as Head of Production, Adam Feigen as Development Executive, Rachel Goldstein-Couto as Head of Development, Brian Blazik as Head of Bell Media Sales, Carlyn Klebuc as General Manager, and Justin Stockman as Vice President of Content Development & Programming.
“The response has been extraordinary, and seeing the series now travelling internationally is an incredible milestone,” added Stockman.
Looking Ahead
As Heated Rivalry continues to captivate audiences, more international deals are expected to follow. The series has garnered interest from several buyers in the UK, with negotiations reportedly nearing completion. The final episode of the current season is set to air on December 26, leaving fans eagerly anticipating the next chapter in this compelling drama.
With its blend of romance, rivalry, and rich storytelling, Heated Rivalry not only entertains but also challenges perceptions, making it a standout series in the landscape of contemporary television.
