“Heated Rivalry” is the latest sports romance drama series to hit HBO Max and Crave, based on the novel of the same name by Rachel Reid. The show follows the story of two rival professional hockey players, Russian-born Ilya Rozanov (played by Connor Storrie) of the fictitious Boston Raiders and Canadian-born Shane Hollander (played by Hudson Williams) of the fictitious Montreal Metros.
Created for television by Jacob Tierney, known for his work on “Letterkenny,” the series had yet to secure an international home just weeks before its premiere on November 28. However, a deal was struck with HBO Max in the US and Australia on November 19, just nine days before the series premiere.
“Heated Rivalry” consists of six episodes, with the first two episodes premiering on Crave and HBO Max on November 28. The series is based on the second installment of Reid’s gay hockey romance novels from the “Game Changer” book series, set in the same hockey universe.
The release schedule for the show includes one new episode every week until the finale on December 26. Fans can expect new episodes to drop around 12:00 am Pacific Time or 3:00 am Eastern Time.
Viewers in the US and Australia can catch all episodes on HBO Max with a subscription costing $10.99 per month. In Canada, the series airs on Crave for $11.99 per month with ads or $22 per month for an ad-free experience. Additionally, the show will be available in New Zealand via Sky starting on November 30, and viewers in Spain can watch it on Movistar Plus+ (release date pending).
“Heated Rivalry” follows the journey of Shane and Ilya as they navigate their ambitions, rivalry, and the growing attraction between them. The two rookies in Major League Hockey must balance their passion for the sport with their blossoming love for each other, all while grappling with the challenges of being openly in love in a competitive environment.
Starring alongside Storrie and Williams are François Arnaud, Robbie G.K., Christina Chang, Dylan Walsh, Sophie Nélisse, and Ksenia Daniela Kharlamova. The series promises drama, yearning, and a heartfelt exploration of love and self-discovery in the world of professional hockey.
The next episode of “Heated Rivalry” is set to premiere on Friday, December 5. Don’t miss out on this thrilling series that delves into the complexities of love, rivalry, and the pursuit of dreams on and off the ice.
