Get ready to pack your bags for the cottage. The internationally acclaimed Canadian romance series is set to premiere in India on on February 20, bringing with it a story that blends intense rivalry, ambition, and unapologetic queer romance.
Created by , Heated Rivalry follows professional ice hockey rivals Shane Hollander and Ilya Rozanov, whose fierce on-ice animosity hides a secret, emotionally charged relationship off the rink. What begins as rivalry soon transforms into a passionate and risky love affair that threatens everything they have worked for in their careers.
The series is based on the popular novels by , which have earned a global fan following for their honest, joyful portrayal of queer love in competitive sports.
Starring as the golden-boy Shane Hollander and as the charismatic and magnetic Ilya Rozanov, the show leans heavily on the electric chemistry between its leads. Their performances capture both the intensity of elite sport and the vulnerability of a love that must remain hidden.
Describing the project, Tierney said he discovered Reid’s novels during the pandemic and was immediately drawn to the story’s emotional honesty. He noted that Heated Rivalry stood out because it offered something rarely seen in queer narratives — a hopeful, affirming love story without tragedy. According to Tierney, the show is intentionally unapologetic in its celebration of queer joy, ambition and romance.
He added that adapting the story felt like a responsibility, not just to the characters, but to the queer community at large. Tierney said the goal was to create a grounded, aspirational love story that proves queer characters can be heroes of their own narratives, pursue demanding careers, and still find happiness.
With its mix of sports drama, romance and emotional depth, Heated Rivalry has already built a strong international reputation. Its India release marks a significant moment for LGBTQ representation on mainstream streaming platforms in the country.
Our Thoughts
Heated Rivalry arrives in India at a time when audiences are increasingly open to stories that move beyond stereotypes and tragedy-driven queer narratives. By placing a same-sex romance at the centre of a high-stakes sports drama, the series challenges traditional storytelling while remaining deeply entertaining. If the show resonates with Indian viewers as it has globally, it could further widen the space for diverse, joyful and unapologetic LGBTQ stories in mainstream entertainment.