“HBO Max Acquires Bell Media’s ‘Heated Rivalry’ for U.S. and Australia” is set to be a significant event in the realm of television. This exciting new series will premiere on November 28, along with its launch on the Canadian platform Crave. The deal was facilitated by Sphere Abacus, which successfully negotiated the sale of the six-episode series to HBO Max for viewers in the United States and Australia.
The Series Overview
“Heated Rivalry” is a Canadian hockey romance series inspired by Rachel Reid’s acclaimed book series, “Game Changers.” Jacob Tierney, known for his work on “Letterkenny,” serves as the show’s creator, writer, and director. The narrative revolves around two rival hockey players, Shane Hollander and Ilya Rozanov, portrayed by Hudson Williams and Connor Storrie, respectively.
Plot Synopsis
The series tracks the evolving relationship between Shane and Ilya, who are not only competitors in major league hockey but also find themselves in a secret romance. The synopsis reveals a multifaceted love story filled with ambition, rivalry, and complex emotions.
- Shane Hollander: Fresh-faced rookie striving for success.
- Ilya Rozanov: Another rookie navigating the pressures of fame.
As their careers progress, Shane and Ilya face challenges in balancing their passion for hockey with their deepening personal connection. The series portrays their journey over several years, showcasing their love amid the high-stakes world of professional sports.
International Sales and Acquisitions
The acquisition by HBO Max is part of Bell Media’s broader strategic vision. Earlier in the year, Bell Media secured a majority stake in Sphere Abacus, establishing it as the primary international distributor for its content. This partnership has been pivotal in maximizing the reach of “Heated Rivalry.” The series will also be available via Sky in New Zealand on November 30 and MoviStar Plus+ in Spain, with details to be confirmed.
Industry Insights
Justin Stockman, Bell Media’s Vice President of Content Development, expressed enthusiasm for the series, affirming that “Heated Rivalry” represents high-caliber storytelling that appeals to a global audience. Jonathan Ford, managing director of Sphere Abacus, highlighted the strong performances and unique narrative as factors driving international interest.
Production Team
“Heated Rivalry” is produced by Accent Aigu Entertainment in partnership with Bell Media’s Crave. Several key figures contribute to its production:
- Jacob Tierney: Writer, director, and executive producer.
- Brendan Brady: Producer and executive producer.
- Lori Fischburg: Producer.
- Rachel Reid: Consulting producer.
Other notable production team members include Alison Korogyi, Sarah Fowlie, Adam Feigen, Rachel Goldstein-Couto, Brian Blazik, Carlyn Klebuc, and Justin Stockman.
The reception of “Heated Rivalry” is eagerly anticipated, with industry leaders expressing confidence in its potential impact across various markets. Bell Media’s ongoing commitment to producing exemplary content is expected to yield further international opportunities for this engaging series.
