The Canadian television series known as “Heated Rivalry” is gaining a global following, with Culture Minister Marc Miller praising it as a success story for Canadian content. Based on romance novels by Rachel Reid from Nova Scotia, the Crave original show tells a love story between professional hockey players on opposing teams.
Minister Miller expressed his enthusiasm after watching the first episode, commending the show for its compelling storyline and its role in challenging stereotypes. Featuring a talented Canadian cast, including writer-director Jacob Tierney and actors like Hudson Williams, François Arnaud, and Sophie Nelisse, “Heated Rivalry” has also highlighted Canadian talent both in front of and behind the camera.
The series, predominantly filmed in Toronto and Hamilton, showcases English and French cultures in Montreal, along with Canadian music contributions by Quebec’s Peter Peter. Notably, the show has garnered significant viewership, becoming the most-watched debut of any Crave Original series, and has inspired various events nationwide, such as dance parties, trivia nights, and viewing parties.
Minister Miller emphasized the show’s representation of hockey as a source of Canadian pride and its resonance with the 2SLGBTQ+ community, addressing topics often considered taboo in the sports world. He acknowledged the series’ bold and provocative nature, urging viewers to be prepared for its content.
Already renewed for a second season, “Heated Rivalry” will see the city of Ottawa playing a key role in the upcoming plot. Ottawa Tourism has even embraced the show, claiming to be the “birthplace of Shane Hollander,” one of the main characters.
During a recent visit to Dark Slope Studios in Scarborough, Minister Miller and MP Rob Oliphant witnessed the show’s production process. Oliphant, a member of the 2SLGBTQ+ community, emphasized the show’s quality and its potent representation of Canadian values.
In conclusion, Minister Miller praised the show’s success as a significant achievement in Canadian content production, emphasizing the government’s investment in supporting local productions. He hopes that “Heated Rivalry” will continue to draw attention to the vibrant landscape of Canadian cultural productions.