‘Heated Rivalry’ Becomes HBO Max’s Most-Watched Acquired Scripted Series

More than a month after its Season 1 finale, Heated Rivalry has drawn over 10.6 million U.S. viewers — more than double its audience on the December 26 finale — making it HBO Max’s most-watched acquired scripted series of all time. Pulled from Rachel Reid’s bestselling novels, the series follows pro hockey players Shane Hollander (Hudson Williams) and Ilya Rozanov (Connor Storrie).

Their rivalry turns into a romantic relationship that jeopardizes both their careers, with the show shifting between steamy passion and icy setbacks. Produced by Canadian studio Crave and created by Jacob Tierney, the series was acquired by HBO for distribution.

The actors’ rising profiles and a shoutout from New York City mayor Zohran Mamdani have helped sustain the show’s word-of-mouth momentum. HBO renewed Heated Rivalry for a second season in early December.

United States, New York City

heated rivalry, hbo max, rachel reid, hudson williams, connor storrie, shane hollander, ilya rozanov, crave, jacob tierney, zohran mamdani