OTTAWA — The Canadian television series “Heated Rivalry” is gaining an international following, and has been hailed as a triumph of Canadian content by Culture Minister Marc Miller. The Crave original series is a romantic narrative centered around professional hockey players from rival teams, inspired by romance novels created by Nova Scotia author Rachel Reid.
Miller expressed his enthusiasm after viewing the first episode, noting that the show features a compelling plot and effectively challenges numerous stereotypes associated with hockey culture. “Heated Rivalry,” which also airs on HBO Max in the United States, showcases a strong ensemble of Canadian talent including writer-director Jacob Tierney and actors Hudson Williams, François Arnaud, and Sophie Nélisse.
The series, filmed primarily in Toronto and Hamilton, also highlights the rich cultural tapestry of Canada by featuring both English and French influences, particularly in Montreal. The evocative musical score was composed by Quebec native Peter Peter. According to Miller, the show has achieved the highest viewership of any Crave Original series debut, spawning various themed events across Canada such as dance parties, trivia nights, viewing parties, and improv comedy shows.
Miller highlighted the show's role in showcasing hockey as a symbol of Canadian cultural pride, while also resonating with individuals in the LGBTQ community and addressing sensitive issues that are often considered taboo within the sport. “It is racy,” he admitted, encouraging viewers to be prepared for its bold themes. Despite various opinions on the show, Miller affirmed his enjoyment and intention to continue watching.
Moreover, “Heated Rivalry” has already been renewed for a second season, and upcoming plotlines are expected to incorporate elements from the city of Ottawa. In anticipation, Ottawa Tourism has updated its social media presence to promote the city as the “birthplace of Shane Hollander,” a key character in the series.
Earlier in the week, Miller, along with Member of Parliament Rob Oliphant, visited Dark Slope Studios in Scarborough to observe the production process of “Heated Rivalry.” Oliphant, who identifies as gay, shared his pride in the series, not only for its LGBTQ themes but also for its quality and representation of Canada’s values. “We’re about human rights, we’re about inclusion, we’re about hockey, and we’re about healthy, even heated, rivalry,” he remarked.
Miller was impressed by the creativity and talent present in Dark Slope Studios, noting that the series was developed primarily with Canadian content. He remarked, “It knocked it out of the park in terms of Cancon.” He also recounted how the Government of Canada had invested $3.5 million in the project, in addition to the tax credits available for productions, underlining the show as a significant return on investment.
Miller expressed his hope that the success of “Heated Rivalry” would encourage viewers to pay more attention to Canadian productions. “It’s piqued people’s interest,” he said. “Hopefully, it draws more attention to really a vibrant part of our culture.”
