NHL Commissioner Says He Binge-Watched ‘Heated Rivalry’ in One Night
NHL commissioner Gary Bettman, 73, recently shared his thoughts on the popular HBO Max queer hockey drama “Heated Rivalry.” In an interview with Hockey News, Bettman revealed that he binge-watched the entire first season in one sitting and found it to be a “wonderful story.”
Bettman acknowledged that the content of the show, especially for young audiences, may be considered “spicy,” but emphasized the importance of balancing it out with how it is embraced. He praised the compelling storyline of “Heated Rivalry” and appreciated how the show cleverly touched on past events in the league, such as their involvement in Sochi and the All-Star Game in Tampa.
“Heated Rivalry” has gained significant popularity since its debut on HBO Max in late November of 2025. Based on Rachel Reid’s “Game Changer” book series, the show follows the secret romance between two rising hockey stars, Shane Hollander (played by Hudson Williams) and Ilya Rozanov (played by Connor Storrie). The show has been renewed for a second season, further solidifying its success.
The stars of “Heated Rivalry,” Williams and Storrie, recently had the honor of carrying the Olympic torch as part of the Milano Cortina 2026 relay in Feltre, Italy. They also made an appearance at the Golden Globes, where they were escorted to the stage by two UFC fighters. Following the Globes, Williams attended Men’s Fashion Week in Milan, walking in the Dsquared2 show and attending the Giorgio Armani runway presentation.
In a podcast interview on “Shut Up Evan,” Williams reflected on the challenges of sudden fame, noting that he and Storrie had to quickly learn the ropes of the entertainment industry. He mentioned that they have had to absorb what many actors typically experience over five years in just 30 days.
The success of “Heated Rivalry” and the recognition received by its cast members highlight the show’s universal appeal and impact on audiences. With its engaging storyline and talented cast, “Heated Rivalry” continues to captivate viewers and make a mark in the world of entertainment.
