“Heated Rivalry,” the TV adaptation based on the bestselling book by Nova Scotia author Rachel Reid, has become a sensation online. The series follows the story of two closeted professional hockey players, Shane Hollander (portrayed by Hudson Williams) and Ilya Rozanov (played by Connor Storrie), who are thrust into a competitive rivalry from the moment they join the league. Their relationship is fraught with sexual tension and secrecy as they engage in a clandestine romance while maintaining a facade of animosity in public. However, their love is hindered by the prevailing homophobia in their sport and the cultural challenges faced by Rozanov in Russia.
Apart from the show’s thematic elements, much attention has been given to its Canadian roots, being a production crafted by Canadian talent, including writer and director Jacob Tierney and producer Crave. Despite being distributed by HBO Max in the U.S. and Australia, viewers are reminded that it is not an HBO original series.
The series’ soundtrack, featuring music reminiscent of Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross, showcases several Canadian tracks that have resonated with audiences. According to Spotify Canada, streams of songs featured in the show have surged, with artists like Feist and Wolf Parade experiencing significant spikes in stream numbers after their music was showcased in pivotal moments of the series.
From indie hits to Haitian music, the first season of “Heated Rivalry” features a diverse array of Canadian music that enhances the emotional depth of the storyline. Each song complements the narrative, providing a unique and authentic Canadian backdrop to the characters’ experiences.