“Heated Rivalry,” the TV adaptation of Rachel Reid’s highly sought-after book, has become a sensation online. The series follows the story of two closeted professional hockey players, Shane Hollander (Hudson Williams) and Ilya Rozanov (Connor Storrie), who are rivals on the ice but secretly engage in a passionate relationship off the rink. However, their love is overshadowed by the homophobia prevalent in their sport and Ilya’s home country of Russia.
One of the key points of interest surrounding the show is its Canadian origins, with Jacob Tierney as the writer and director and Crave as the producer. Despite being distributed by HBO Max in the U.S. and Australia, fans are quick to clarify that it is not an HBO production.
Apart from the captivating storyline, the show’s focus on Canadian elements, from its modest budget to the soundtrack featuring Canadian artists, has garnered attention. The music, including tracks reminiscent of Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross, has led to a surge in streaming numbers for Canadian songs featured in the series.
The first season of “Heated Rivalry” showcases a variety of Canadian music moments that complement pivotal scenes in the characters’ journeys. From Feist’s “Sealion” to Wolf Parade’s “I’ll Believe in Anything,” each song adds emotional depth to the unfolding narrative, resonating with viewers and enhancing the viewing experience.