Culture Minister Marc Miller has praised the Canadian TV series “Heated Rivalry” as a significant achievement in Canadian content. The show, based on romance novels by Rachel Reid, follows the love story of rival pro hockey players. Miller commended the series for its engaging plot and its efforts to challenge stereotypes.
Featuring a talented Canadian cast, including writer-director Jacob Tierney and actors Hudson Williams, François Arnaud, and Sophie Nelisse, “Heated Rivalry” has garnered attention both in Canada and internationally. The show, predominantly filmed in Toronto and Hamilton, showcases elements of English and French culture in Montreal, as well as Canadian music composed by Peter Peter from Quebec.
With record-breaking viewership for a Crave Original series debut, “Heated Rivalry” has sparked various events nationwide, such as dance parties and viewing parties, reflecting its widespread popularity. Miller emphasized the show’s exploration of Canadian cultural pride through its portrayal of hockey and its resonance with the 2SLGBTQ+ community. He acknowledged the series for addressing taboo topics within the hockey world and highlighted its bold and captivating narrative.
Renewed for another season, “Heated Rivalry” is set to include Ottawa in its upcoming plotline, with Ottawa Tourism already embracing its connection to the show by claiming the city as the “birthplace of Shane Hollander,” a key character in the series. Miller and Member of Parliament Rob Oliphant recently visited Dark Slope Studios in Scarborough, where the show was produced, underscoring the potential for Canada to excel in cultural storytelling.
Oliphant, expressing pride in the show’s representation of Canadian and LGBTQ+ themes, emphasized its quality and its contribution to showcasing Canadian values. Miller lauded the studio’s dedication to Canadian content production, noting the significant government investment in the series. He hopes that “Heated Rivalry” will inspire greater appreciation for Canadian media and foster a deeper understanding of the country’s vibrant cultural landscape.