The popular TV series, “Heated Rivalry,” is facing fierce competition from a new hockey-themed show called “Off Campus,” which also boasts Canadian roots. Adapted from the best-selling novels by Toronto author Elle Kennedy, “Off Campus” centers around Hannah Wells, a music student, and Garrett Graham, a star hockey player, as their tutoring arrangement evolves into a romantic relationship amidst college rivalries and sports drama.
Currently ranked as the top show on Amazon Prime Video in Canada, “Off Campus” showcases Canadian talent both on and off the screen, with the inclusion of Canadian settings, music, and production team members. Elle Kennedy, the author of the “Off Campus” book series, is a Canadian herself, heavily involved as a producer in the TV adaptation. Raised in Toronto, Kennedy’s passion for writing began at a young age and has since led to the creation of nearly 50 contemporary novels.
The series was predominantly filmed in Vancouver, standing in for the fictional Briar University in Boston. Various locations at the University of British Columbia were utilized to bring the university campus to life, including the Irving K. Barber Learning Centre and the Doug Mitchell Thunderbird Sports Centre, doubling as the hockey arena and locker rooms. Real-life sites like UBC’s Sigma Phi Delta (Theta Chapter) fraternity and The Heatley pub were also featured in the show.
The Toronto-based band, The Beaches, saw a significant surge in popularity after their song “Edge of the Earth” was featured in an episode of “Off Campus.” The band experienced an 888% increase in streaming across platforms following the show’s release, with their music playing a pivotal role in key scenes of the series.
The show boasts a predominantly Canadian cast, with actors like Stephen Kalyn, Dylan Kingwell, Khobe Clarke, Julia Sarah Stone, Karis Cameron, Chelah Horsdal, and Jennifer Spence showcasing their talents on screen. Additionally, Canadian Leanna Billings, originally from Fredericton, serves as an executive producer for the series, contributing her expertise to the show’s development and success.
With its compelling storyline, talented cast, and strong Canadian connections, “Off Campus” has captured the hearts of viewers, solidifying its position as a top contender in the world of hockey-themed television dramas.
