How Heated Rivalry became biggest TV surprise hit of 2025

When HBO acquired Heated Rivalry, no one anticipated the series would turn into one of the network’s biggest breakout hits of 2025. Based on the popular novel by Rachel Reid, the Canadian-produced series follows two rival professional hockey players whose intense on-ice competition evolves into a complicated, secret relationship. What began as a niche acquisition quickly turned into a cultural moment.

“It was not something where anyone said, ‘This is going to be our biggest surprise hit of the year,’” said HBO’s head of drama Francesca Orsi. “But the response was immediate, passionate and far bigger than expected.”

The series was introduced to HBO leadership shortly before its debut, after gaining early traction in Canada. Executives were drawn to its emotional storytelling and strong chemistry between the leads, even as they recognized its unconventional tone. “It had a boldness to it that felt very honest,” Orsi said. “It wasn’t trying to soften itself to be something else.”

At its core, Heated Rivalry blends sports drama with an intimate character study. The show explores themes of identity, ambition, and vulnerability within the hyper-masculine world of professional hockey. According to executive producer Jay Vogan, the goal was always authenticity. “We wanted it to feel real — the pressure, the fear, the desire — all of it,” he said.

Audience response quickly exceeded expectations. The show became one of the most-watched scripted titles on HBO Max shortly after its release, while also ranking as one of the most successful original series in Canada on Crave. “The engagement was unlike anything we’d seen for a show of this size,” Orsi noted. “People weren’t just watching, they were talking, sharing, rewatching.”

Much of the conversation centered on the show’s unapologetic storytelling. Variety reported that executives internally referred to the series as “premium,” acknowledging its bold approach while emphasizing its emotional depth. “It’s not provocative just to be provocative,” Orsi said. “There’s heart underneath it.”

The success of Heated Rivalry has also shifted perceptions within the industry about international acquisitions and genre blending. “This has really opened our eyes,” Orsi admitted. “It proves that audiences are hungry for stories that feel specific, authentic, and emotionally fearless.”

Following its breakout first season, Heated Rivalry has been renewed for a second season, cementing its place as one of HBO’s most unexpected triumphs. As the network looks ahead, executives say the show’s success will influence future programming decisions. “This is the kind of surprise that reminds you why you take creative risks,” Orsi said.