NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman reveals his surprising late-night binge of the TV series ‘Heated Rivalry’. Discover how the romance between Shane Hollander and Ilya Rozanov is boosting NHL interest and what it means for the future of inclusivity in the sport.
It isn’t every day you hear a professional sports commissioner admit to losing sleep over a TV drama, but the Heated Rivalry phenomenon has officially reached the highest levels of the NHL. Gary Bettman recently shared his thoughts on the breakout series, and his take might just surprise you.
Fast Facts: The Impact of ‘Heated Rivalry’
| Feature | Details |
| Source Material | Based on the best-selling novel by Rachel Reid |
| Main Characters | Shane Hollander and Ilya Rozanov |
| Bettman’s Review | “A wonderful story… compelling and a lot of fun” |
| Key Themes | Professional rivalry, secret romance, and LGBTQ+ visibility |
| League Impact | Increased interest in the 2025-26 NHL regular season |
Why Gary Bettman Couldn’t Stop Watching ‘Heated Rivalry’
During a recent media session in Washington, Commissioner Gary Bettman admitted that the league is “well aware” of the cultural wave created by Heated Rivalry. The series, which follows the secret off-ice romance between two rival superstars, Shane Hollander and Ilya Rozanov, has captured an audience far beyond typical sports fans.
Bettman confessed that he actually binge-watched the entire series in a single night. While he noted that the content can be a bit “spicy” for younger audiences, he praised the storytelling for its accuracy and entertainment value. He specifically enjoyed how the show poked fun at real-world league events, such as the Olympics in Sochi and the All-Star Game in Tampa, making it a “very well done” tribute to the sport.
Boosting Interest in the 2025-26 Season
The success of Heated Rivalry has come at a perfect time for the league. As the 2025-26 regular season progresses, the NHL has seen a noticeable spike in engagement, which Bettman credits in part to the show’s popularity. By humanizing the players and exploring the intense pressure of professional hockey, the series has drawn in new fans who might not have followed the sport otherwise.
This crossover between pop culture and professional sports is exactly what the league needs to reach a younger, more diverse demographic. The “compelling storyline” of Heated Rivalry serves as a gateway, turning viewers into real-life spectators who are now tuning in to see the actual speed and intensity of the NHL.
The League’s Stance on LGBTQ+ Visibility
With the central theme of Heated Rivalry being a queer romance between elite athletes, the conversation naturally turned toward the NHL’s own inclusivity efforts. Bettman used the opportunity to reaffirm the league’s support for the LGBTQ+ community. He highlighted ongoing initiatives like Pride nights, the use of Pride Tape by players, and the league’s long-standing affiliation with the You Can Play project.
While the show is a work of fiction, it reflects real conversations happening in locker rooms across North America. The Heated Rivalry series has given the league a platform to show that “Hockey is for Everyone,” even as they navigate the complexities of player participation in various social and political causes.
Addressing the Specialty Jersey Controversy
One of the most debated topics in recent years has been the league’s decision to stop wearing specialty warmup jerseys, including those for Pride nights. Bettman clarified that the success of Heated Rivalry doesn’t change the league’s stance on this, but he insisted the decision was never about a lack of support for the LGBTQ+ community.
He explained that the jerseys became a “distraction” when certain players didn’t feel comfortable wearing them for a variety of reasons—whether religious, national origin, or personal. To prevent the focus from shifting away from the cause itself, the league moved toward celebratory nights that didn’t require specific on-ice apparel changes. For fans of Heated Rivalry, this nuanced approach remains a point of discussion as they look for more authentic representation within the sport.
The Future of Hockey Media and Storytelling
The “Bettman Bump” for Heated Rivalry signals a shift in how sports leagues view entertainment. Instead of shying away from fictionalized versions of their world, the NHL is embracing them as a way to grow the game. The show’s ability to blend high-stakes sports action with deep, emotional character arcs has set a new standard for hockey media.
As the season continues, the influence of Heated Rivalry will likely be felt in arenas across the league. Whether it’s new fans holding up signs referencing the show or increased discussions about athlete mental health and identity, the story of Shane and Ilya has left an indelible mark on the hockey world.
Conclusion: A Win-Win for Fans and the League
In the end, Gary Bettman’s endorsement of Heated Rivalry is a testament to the power of great storytelling. By acknowledging the series, the NHL is meeting fans where they are and celebrating a story that promotes inclusion and passion.
The 2025-26 season is proving that hockey is more than just goals and saves—it’s about the people behind the jerseys. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of the Winnipeg Jets or a newcomer who just finished binging Heated Rivalry on Bell Media, it’s clear that the game is growing in exciting new directions.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is ‘Heated Rivalry’ based on a true story?
No, Heated Rivalry is a fictional series based on the popular novel by Rachel Reid. However, it draws inspiration from real NHL locations and events to create an authentic feel.
2. Where can I watch the ‘Heated Rivalry’ TV series?
The series is a breakout hit on Bell Media in Canada and is available on various streaming platforms depending on your region.
3. What did Gary Bettman say about the show?
Bettman called it a “wonderful story” and praised it for being “very compelling,” admitting he watched the entire first season in one night.
4. Does the NHL still have Pride Nights?
Yes, the NHL continues to host Pride Nights and supports LGBTQ+ initiatives, even though teams no longer wear specialty warmup jerseys.
5. Who are the main characters in ‘Heated Rivalry’?
The story focuses on Shane Hollander and Ilya Rozanov, two elite hockey players who are fierce rivals on the ice and secret lovers off the ice.
