The Canadian series “Heated Rivalry” has garnered a global fanbase and praise from Culture Minister Marc Miller, who hails it as a success story for Canadian content. Based on romance novels by Rachel Reid from Nova Scotia, the Crave original show depicts a love story between professional hockey players from rival teams.
Minister Miller expressed enthusiasm after watching the first episode, commending the show for its compelling storyline and efforts to challenge stereotypes. Featuring a talented Canadian cast, including writer-director Jacob Tierney and actors Hudson Williams, François Arnaud, and Sophie Nelisse, “Heated Rivalry” has received acclaim and is now airing on HBO Max in the U.S.
The series, predominantly filmed in Toronto and Hamilton, also showcases Montreal’s English and French culture and Canadian music, with the score composed by Quebec’s Peter Peter. Boasting record viewership numbers for a Crave Original series debut, “Heated Rivalry” has sparked various events nationwide, from dance parties to trivia nights, drawing widespread popularity both in North America and beyond.
Miller highlighted the show’s portrayal of hockey as a symbol of Canadian cultural pride, resonating with the 2SLGBTQ+ community and addressing topics typically considered taboo in the hockey world. He acknowledged the show’s provocative nature and its appeal to diverse audiences, expressing his anticipation for the upcoming second season, which will reportedly involve the city of Ottawa in its plot.
Moreover, Ottawa Tourism has embraced its connection to the series, claiming to be the “birthplace of Shane Hollander,” a central character in the show. The production of “Heated Rivalry” was recently visited by Miller and Member of Parliament Rob Oliphant at Dark Slope Studios in Scarborough, underscoring Canada’s potential as a leader in cultural storytelling.
Oliphant, emphasizing the show’s quality and thematic richness, lauded its representation of Canadian values and the LGBTQ+ narrative. The government’s significant investment in the series, coupled with tax credits, symbolizes a successful collaboration in promoting Canadian content. Miller expressed hope that the show’s success will draw more attention to the vibrant landscape of Canadian productions, enhancing cultural appreciation among viewers worldwide.
