The HBO Max series "Heated Rivalry," based on Rachel Reid's romance novels, has garnered significant attention for its portrayal of queer, closeted professional ice hockey players navigating love and its associated challenges. While the series contains explicit sexual content, its success is attributed to a deeper resonance with viewers' universal desire for connection and longing.

Emma Glassman-Hughes, a writer, reporter, and editor at Popsugar, stated that "Heated Rivalry" is successful because it taps into a universal experience: yearning. This yearning, according to Glassman-Hughes, is a widespread sentiment among viewers.

The series, which premiered on HBO Max and is set in Canada, follows the romantic relationship between two male hockey players. The narrative explores themes of identity, acceptance, and the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals in professional sports.

Jonquilyn Hill, host of the podcast "Explain It to Me," suggests that the show's appeal extends beyond its explicit content, touching on fundamental human emotions and experiences. The series has become a popular topic of discussion in online communities and has been widely shared on social media platforms.