Heated Rivalry is one of six honorees at the Television Academy.
Television Academy has selected six television programs who have been the “most inspiring and meaningful television 2025.” These shows are those that raise awareness on issues that society is facing today which includes online misogyny, disability rights, end-of-life caregiving, Black history, political extremism, and LGBTQ+ representation.
Bobbi Banks, who co-chaired the Television Academy Honors selection committee, said, “The selected programs tackle vital and timely topics. Through the powerful stories they share and the voices they amplify, these shows highlight television’s unique ability to both inform and entertain while also sparking dialogue; encouraging empathy; and, when necessary, motivating action.”
The list of honorees can be read below:
- Adolescence
- Deaf President Now!
- Dying for Sex
- Heated Rivalry
- Seen & Heard: The History of Black Television
- South Park
Heated Rivalry received 18 nominations at the Canadian Screen Awards and is the fourth most-nominated series in the history of the CSA. The show was also nominated at the Banff World Media Festival’s Rockie Awards, and won “Outstanding New TV Series” at the GLAAD Media Awards. The show also received a nomination in the “Entertainment” category at the Peabody Awards, one of the most prestigious awards in the media industry.
Based on Rachel Reid’s bestselling novel, Heated Rivalry was written, produced, and directed by Jacob Tierney. Starring Hudson Williams as Shane Hollander, a Japanese-Canadian hockey player, and Connor Storrie as Ilya Rozanov, a Russian hockey player, the story follows the two rival hockey players who, to the public, seem to hate each other, but behind closed doors, start a casual sexual relationship. However, as the years go by, what was meant to be a few instances for sexual release turn into something more.
The TV show, produced by Crave, debuted on November 28 and has received an overwhelming outpouring of critical acclaim and praise for both actors, screenwriting, directing, cinematography, and music composition.
Recipients will be celebrated on May 30 during a ceremony.
Source: Television Academy
