Sooo…is anyone else watching ice hockey lately? 

'Heated Rivalry' is a steamy, addictive, sweet TV drama about two rival ice-hockey stars, Shane Hollander (Hunter Williams) and Ilya Rozanov (Connor Storrie), who can’t keep their hands (or feelings) off each other. 

It has gone from the niche online ‘smut’ to a full-blown obsession and cultural reset.

Just a few months ago, author Rachel Reid was cautiously explaining herself on her blog.

“I write sexually explicit queer romance novels about hockey players,” she wrote, adding that it wasn’t something she felt comfortable sharing widely.

Fast forward to now, and the adaptation of her ‘Game Changers’ novel has exploded. Dominating social media, bringing endless fan edits, and landing its stars on red carpets, late-night TV and podcasts all over the world. 

Honestly? In my opinion, if you don’t like it, or giving it a chance. I’m judging you. And you’re a ‘Hoser’ (yes, that’s ice hockey slang for loser). Sorry, not sorry. 

After watching the show (twice), I slowly began to realise why so many of us are loving it. Look, of course, the streamy scenes are UNREAL and hot AF, but it's more than that. 

It’s romance without misogyny, there's absolutely no toxic masculinity, and it’s men written by women. It hits different. 

The intimacy isn’t there just to shock. It’s part of an eight year emotional arc built on stolen sexy moments, flirty texts and public rivalry.

Rachel Reid once thought the books were “unadaptable”. 

She originally published them anonymously online, framing them as fan fiction. 

But against all expectations, the TV version keeps close to the book. (thank f**k cause OOF)

“I don’t think I’ve ever seen an adaptation this loyal,” she says.

Despite its strong LGBTQ+ representation and heartfelt storytelling, some critics have tried to reduce it to “the gay hockey show”. 

But Reid isn’t bothered, stating:

“The community around it is incredible, watch parties, raves, events,” she says.

“It’s a real vibe check. If you like this show, you’re probably on the right side of a lot of things.”

Still, we as fans insist the show’s real power sneaks up on you.

At first, you’re just watching in awe and shock. Like guys, no kidding, there was a point I had to pause cause I was overwhelmed by the intensity. 

But, it got me thinking, people don’t dismiss ‘Bridgerton’ because it has raunchy sex scenes between straight people. So why is this any different?

But by the end? I was bawling my eyes out, wiping tears. It’s just so f*cking unbelievably sweet in the end. 

Season 2 has been confirmed to be released in 2027 (I can’t believe we have to wait that long tbh) 

With more and more people finally getting amongst the hype, ‘Heated Rivalry’ hasn’t just crossed over, it’s taken over.