Heated Rivalry, the TV adaptation based on the sold-out book by Nova Scotia writer Rachel Reid, has become a sensation online.
The series revolves around two closeted professional hockey players, Shane Hollander (played by Hudson Williams) and Ilya Rozanov (portrayed by Connor Storrie), who are thrust into a competitive relationship from the moment they enter the league. Their rivalry is infused with a mix of sexual tension and fixation as they engage in a clandestine romance while maintaining a facade of animosity in public. Their relationship is hindered by the prevalent homophobia in their sport and Ilya’s home country of Russia.
Besides the intense drama and emotional turmoil, much of the focus on the show has been its Canadian origin, with Jacob Tierney (known for Letterkenny, Shoresy) at the helm as writer and director, and Crave as the producer.
From its modest budget to the casting choices and musical selections, many elements of the series carry a distinct Canadian flair. Fans have taken it upon themselves to clarify that despite being distributed by HBO Max in the U.S. and Australia, the show is not an HBO production.
Alongside a score reminiscent of Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross that underscores the tension and passion between the lead characters, the show features several Canadian tracks during crucial moments.
According to a statement from Spotify Canada, streaming figures have mirrored the show’s popularity, with tracks from featured Canadian artists experiencing significant increases in streams and playlist additions following their inclusion in the series.
From indie favorites of the 2010s to vibrant Haitian beats, here are the Canadian music highlights from Season 1 of Heated Rivalry.
Spoiler alert: the following contains references to key plot developments in the series.
Sealion, Feist
Feist’s rendition of Nina Simone’s See-Line Woman in the form of Sealion sets the tone as Shane nervously anticipates his first encounter with Ilya, mirroring his inner turmoil.
Une journée parfaite, Dumas
The lively Une journée parfaite by Quebecois artist Dumas accompanies the aftermath of Shane and Ilya’s initial liaison and Shane’s deep dive into watching Ilya’s interviews online.
Chelsea mon amour, Philippe B
Montreal singer Philippe B’s heartfelt track Chelsea mon amour plays in the background as Shane communicates with Ilya after a disappointing performance at the 2014 Winter Olympics in Sochi.
I’ll Believe in Anything, Wolf Parade
Wolf Parade’s I’ll Believe in Anything encapsulates
