HBO Max’s 92% Rated “Steamy” New Sports Romance Heats Up Streaming After an Intense Two-Episode Premiere

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HBO is known for creating captivating and often sensual dramas that keep viewers hooked, even during the coldest months. They’ve consistently delivered high-quality, thought-provoking shows, and their latest offering – a Canadian sports drama based on a popular book series – is already gaining traction. It will premiere on November 28, 2025, and is quickly becoming popular on HBO Max.

As a huge movie buff, I’m really excited about this new sports drama, Heated Rivalry! It’s based on Rachel Reid’s Game Changers books, and it’s all about two hockey players who can’t stand each other on the ice, but secretly have a really intense connection. And it’s already a hit! Just a few days after it started, it’s the fourth most popular show on HBO Max here in the US, according to Flix Patrol. Plus, it’s doing incredibly well on Crave in Canada. Critics seem to love it – it has an 88% score on Rotten Tomatoes – but even more impressively, viewers are giving it a 92% rating! It’s definitely one to check out if you’re looking for something new.

Heated Rivalry tells the story of Shane Hollander, a Canadian professional hockey player, and his Russian competitor, Ilya Rozanov. They’re intense enemies on the ice, but as they get to know each other, a secret and passionate romance develops. Navigating the pressures of their high-profile, competitive sport, they must grapple with their growing feelings, public image, and what society expects from them.

‘Heated Rivalry’ Is Already Surprising Viewers


HBO Max

Even after only two episodes, Heated Rivalry is exceeding expectations for many longtime fans of the author’s books. Reviewers are particularly impressed with the show’s quality, with one commenting on Rotten Tomatoes that the writing and directing are exceptional. Another reviewer enthusiastically agreed.

Wow, Heated Rivalry completely blew me away! I expected to enjoy it, but it exceeded all my expectations – especially the steaminess! I’m still reeling. Connor’s performance was incredible – he truly embodied the character. It honestly felt like Ilya himself had come to life. And Hudson as Shane? Absolutely perfect casting!

Reviewers are praising the show, noting that it truly delivers on its promise and describing it as both enjoyable and a genuine love story between two men. Some, including Daniel Fienberg of The Hollywood Reporter, have even drawn comparisons to the popular film Challengers.

While ‘Heated Rivalry’ has some humorous moments – the playful competition between men is often amusing – at its heart it’s a genuinely passionate and mature romance. Think of it as similar to ‘Challengers,’ but without the added complexity of a love triangle involving Zendaya.

You can now watch the first two episodes of Heated Rivalry on HBO Max. New episodes will be released every Friday until the season ends on December 26, 2025.

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2025-12-05 00:44