HEATED RIVALRY, the TV adaptation of the book by Nova Scotia writer Rachel Reid that is currently sold out, has become a sensation online. The series delves into the story of two closeted professional hockey players, Shane Hollander (played by Hudson Williams) and Ilya Rozanov (played by Connor Storrie), who find themselves on opposing sides from the moment they join the league. Their rivalry is charged with a mix of sexual tension and fixation as they engage in a clandestine relationship while maintaining a facade of animosity in public. Despite their intimate encounters, their constrained and hindered bond is overshadowed by deep-seated homophobia prevalent in their sport and in Rozanov’s native Russia.
Apart from the show’s focus on romance and conflict, much attention has been directed towards its Canadian origins. Written and directed by Jacob Tierney (known for Letterkenny and Shoresy) and produced by Crave, various elements of the production, from its modest budget to casting choices and music selections, exude a distinctly Canadian vibe. Fans have taken it upon themselves to clarify that, despite being distributed by HBO Max in the U.S. and Australia, the show is not an HBO production.
In addition to a score reminiscent of Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross that intensifies the tension between the protagonists, the series features several Canadian tracks during pivotal scenes. According to Spotify Canada, streaming figures have mirrored the show’s popularity, with tracks by featured Canadian artists experiencing significant spikes in streams and playlist additions following their inclusion in the episodes.
From indie favorites of the 2010s to energetic Haitian compositions, Season 1 of Heated Rivalry is enriched by a diverse array of Canadian musical selections. The soundtrack enhances key moments in the narrative, enriching the viewers’ emotional experience and contributing to the show’s distinct Canadian identity.