NHL Executive Praises Popularity of 'Heated Rivalry' TV Series

The hockey-themed drama featuring a gay couple has found mainstream success, according to league business president.

Mar. 3, 2026 at 7:36pm

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The HBO series 'Heated Rivalry', which centers around a secret romance between two rival professional hockey players, has become a mainstream hit. In an interview, NHL business president Keith Wachtel said the show is 'helping and supporting the game' of hockey, and that the league is pleased it has become another way to grow the sport's popularity.

Why it matters

The success of 'Heated Rivalry' is notable because longform television dramas rarely focus on professional sports, let alone hockey. The show's prominence of a gay couple in leading roles also represents a milestone for LGBTQ+ representation in mainstream media.

The details

The viral success of 'Heated Rivalry' is not surprising given the appealing premise of public rivals engaging in a secret romance. However, the series is rare in that the main characters are both men, giving greater visibility to a gay couple in a prominent role. According to Wachtel, the show is 'helping and supporting the game' of hockey and providing another avenue to grow the sport's popularity.

  • The HBO series 'Heated Rivalry' premiered in 2026.

The players

Keith Wachtel

The president of NHL business, who shared his thoughts on the success of the 'Heated Rivalry' TV series.

Hudson Williams

An actor who stars in the 'Heated Rivalry' TV series.

Connor Storrie

An actor who stars in the 'Heated Rivalry' TV series.

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What they’re saying

“It's captured the minds of a lot of people and, again, crossover — it's not just about hockey. It is certainly something that's talked about a lot. It is definitely helping and supporting the game, which is great, and it's growing it. … We continue to monitor it and look at it but if it's supporting the game we all love, we're pleased that this has become another mainstream opportunity to grow the sport of hockey.”

— Keith Wachtel, President of NHL Business

The takeaway

The success of the 'Heated Rivalry' TV series, which features a gay couple as the lead characters, represents a milestone for LGBTQ+ representation in mainstream media. The NHL's positive response to the show's popularity suggests the league sees it as an opportunity to grow the sport's appeal beyond its traditional fanbase.