Heated Rivalry leads TV buzz with GLAAD Media Awards nomination

Heated Rivalry earns a GLAAD Media Awards nod as one of the standout new TV series celebrating LGBTQ storytelling

HBO Max’s Heated Rivalry has emerged as one of the most talked-about television titles at the 37th annual GLAAD Media Awards, earning a nomination for Outstanding New TV Series.

The buzzy gay hockey drama was recognized as part of this year’s nominations, which spotlight nearly 300 honorees across film, television, music, gaming, podcasts, and digital media.

The full list of GLAAD Media Awards nominees was unveiled on January 7, highlighting projects that advance fair, accurate, and inclusive LGBTQ representation. On the television side, Heated Rivalry stood out among a competitive slate of new series, underscoring its impact as a breakout title in queer storytelling. The series was joined in the category by shows such as Apple TV+’s Pluribus and several Netflix originals.

GLAAD president and CEO Sarah Kate Ellis emphasized the cultural importance of this year’s nominees, noting that LGBTQ stories continue to resonate with global audiences. In a statement, Ellis said the popularity of nominated series demonstrates that inclusive and original storytelling remains a “winning strategy” as the media landscape evolves. She also highlighted the growing role of television and streaming platforms as spaces for LGBTQ narratives and talent.

Beyond the new series category, the GLAAD nominations also recognized major drama titles, including Netflix’s Stranger Things, which received a nod in the Outstanding Drama Series category. However, Heated Rivalry’s nomination places it at the center of awards-season conversation as a fresh and bold addition to LGBTQ-focused television.

The 2026 GLAAD Media Awards ceremony is scheduled to take place in Los Angeles on March 5, where winners will be announced. As anticipation builds, Heated Rivalry’s recognition marks a significant milestone for the series and reinforces its growing influence within LGBTQ media representation.