“Heated Rivalry,” the TV adaptation of Rachel Reid’s popular book, has become a sensation online. The series follows the story of two closeted professional hockey players, Shane Hollander and Ilya Rozanov, who are forced into a rivalry upon being drafted. While publicly feuding, they secretly engage in a passionate affair, navigating the challenges of homophobia within their sport and Rozanov’s Russian background.
The show, uniquely Canadian in many aspects, is written and directed by Jacob Tierney and produced by Crave. Despite being distributed by HBO Max in the U.S. and Australia, it is important to note that “Heated Rivalry” is not an HBO production. The series features a soundtrack filled with Canadian songs, adding to its distinct Canadian flavor.
The captivating score, reminiscent of Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross, intensifies the tension between the main characters. The show’s popularity is reflected in streaming numbers, with tracks from Canadian artists experiencing a significant surge in streams and playlist adds following the episodes they were featured in.
Throughout the first season, a variety of Canadian songs set the tone for pivotal moments in the characters’ journeys. From Feist’s “Sealion” to Wolf Parade’s “I’ll Believe in Anything,” each track complements the unfolding narrative. These musical choices, coupled with the show’s compelling storyline, have captured the attention of viewers worldwide.
