Debuted on HBO Max in late November with little advertising, the gay hockey series Heated Rivalry has attracted considerable interest. The show’s appealing leads, Hudson Williams and Connor Storrie, engage viewers with the chemistry between their roles as two skilled, closeted NHL players. As of December 11, Heated Rivalry stands as the third most-watched series on HBO Max, trailing behind Mad Men and IT: Welcome to Derry.
What distinguishes this Canadian series from other recent offerings? It’s a rare romantic narrative centered on gay love on television, showcasing the frequently overlooked stories of LGBTQ athletes. The quality of acting and production is commendable. Nonetheless, it’s the depiction of intimacy, particularly between Williams’ and Storrie’s characters, that captures the audience’s attention. Their interactions feel unique compared to other prominent LGBTQ series like Queer as Folk, The L Word, and Heartstopper.
The nature of the characters’ connection enhances the intrigue—their intimate moments are highly forbidden. If it were revealed that the League’s leading players were romantically linked, it could threaten their careers and personal safety. The elevated stakes add to the fervent passion.
Series creator Jacob Tierney deserves recognition for crafting the love scenes to be genuine and compelling. He selected two charismatic actors who seem to have real chemistry and beautifully filmed them in opulent hotel environments. Heated Rivalry’s lighting is warm and inviting, although HBO Max unintentionally darkened the show (as claimed by Tierney), including its intimate scenes, in comparison to the original Canadian version. The camera focuses on the men during their intimate moments, steering clear of suggestive imagery like flickering candles or hand-holding. When Shane and Ilya yield to their feelings, it resembles Blue Is the Warmest Color rather than Red, White, & Royal Blue, featuring close-ups, sounds, and moments of awkwardness.
Zachary Zane, the sex and relationship expert from Grindr, commended Heated Rivalry’s portrayal of gay desire:
“Firstly, the show adeptly creates suspense and sexual tension, perhaps exceeding prior depictions of queer intimacy on screen. It utilizes a slow-burn technique, characterized by continual furtive glances and intense yearning between Ilya and Shane, with Shane’s longing being particularly pronounced. The audience can detect the sexual tension and desire etched on their expressions.
Secondly, the production quality is remarkably high. The soft lighting and shadows introduce a sensual and suspenseful layer not as prominent in earlier queer offerings.
Thirdly, the chemistry between Ilya and Shane is a major draw. Their enemies-to-lovers theme is a classic and thrilling romantic trope, but there’s depth beyond that. Shane exhibits a slightly submissive nature, hesitant about his desires while wrestling with his fears. Ilya is a dominant figure, emotionally distant with a captivating accent, deep voice, and an adventurous spirit towards public liaisons. If only we could glimpse their Grindr profiles.
While sexual fantasies and desires understandably differ among queer men, this specific dom/sub dynamic resonates with many gay and bisexual men, who may identify with Ilya, Shane, or possibly both.”
Heated Rivalry’s fourth episode (of six) premieres tomorrow, December 12, on HBO Max.