HBO's 'Heated Rivalry' Sparks Conversation Around LGBTQIA+ Inclusion in Hockey

The hit TV series based on a novel by Rachel Reid has driven increased visibility and acceptance for the LGBTQIA+ community in the NHL and beyond.

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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The HBO Max series 'Heated Rivalry,' based on a novel by Rachel Reid, has sparked a broader conversation around LGBTQIA+ inclusion and representation in professional men's sports, particularly in the NHL. The show's popularity and critical acclaim have led to increased visibility for LGBTQIA+ players and fans, as well as a push for the league to be more accepting and supportive of the community.

Why it matters

The NHL has historically lacked diversity and inclusion, with the league reporting in 2022 that over 83% of its employees are white and over 93% identify as straight or heterosexual. The ban on Pride Tape in 2023 was seen as a step backward, but 'Heated Rivalry' has helped drive a cultural shift, inspiring players to come out and teams to hold more inclusive events.

The details

The show's portrayal of a love story between two rival hockey players has resonated with audiences, pushing for a more accepting culture in a sport known for traditional masculinity. The show's popularity has even spread to Russia, a country with strict LGBTQIA+ laws. Celebrities and politicians have recognized the show's impact, and closeted professional athletes from multiple leagues have reached out to the show's creators, sharing how it has inspired them.

  • In November 2025, HBO Max acquired the rights to the Crave original TV series 'Heated Rivalry'.
  • In 2023, the NHL banned Pride Tape, citing religious reasons from some players, but the ban was lifted after backlash.
  • On January 13, 2026, former hockey player Jesse Kortuem came out on Facebook, crediting 'Heated Rivalry' as his inspiration.

The players

Gary Bettman

The NHL Commissioner who banned Pride Tape in 2023 but later recognized the positive influence of 'Heated Rivalry' on the sport.

Luke Prokop

The first openly gay player under NHL contract when he came out as a Nashville Predators prospect in 2021.

Charlie McAvoy

A defenseman for the Boston Bruins who used Pride Tape on his stick during the team's 'Hockey Is For Everyone' night.

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What they’re saying

“The fact that it's had the social relevance that it's had, obviously a huge thank you to them for putting hockey even more on the map and opening it up as far as eyeballs to a lot more people. There's just a lot of things that you could take away from that show that create a lot of positive discussion. It's amazing that it was created and that it's bringing more attention to hockey, too.”

— Paul Bissonnette, Former NHL star (Us Weekly)

“The show was growing the game a lot and in support of that community, so that stuff's all awesome.”

— Charlie McAvoy (The Rocky Mountain Collegian)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

The popularity and critical acclaim of 'Heated Rivalry' have helped drive a cultural shift in professional men's sports, particularly the NHL, towards greater acceptance and inclusion of the LGBTQIA+ community. The show's impact has inspired players to come out, teams to hold more inclusive events, and the league to recognize the need for further progress in diversity and representation.