At the 37th Annual GLAAD Media Awards held in Los Angeles on March 5, the romantic drama series *Heated Rivalry* garnered recognition as it was awarded Outstanding New TV Series. The show’s executive producer, Brendan Brady, alongside its creator, Jacob Tierney, took the opportunity to discuss the enthusiastic response from fans, as well as the rather unexpected gifts they have received.
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In an exclusive interview with *PEOPLE*, Tierney expressed gratitude for the love and support shown by the series’ audience. The 46-year-old writer remarked that they had been “so lucky” to receive an array of positive feedback, with many viewers sharing how the show has resonated with them on a personal level. “They say really, really beautiful things to us,” he noted, reflecting on the emotional impact that *Heated Rivalry* has had on its fans.
Brady highlighted the unique nature of some of the gifts sent to the production team, revealing a rather surprising trend. “We’re also on the receiving end of receiving a lot of free gifts, including butt plugs,” he remarked, adding a humorous twist to their discussion. The unexpected offerings from fans have certainly become a notable talking point for the show’s creators.
Alongside the cheekier gifts, Tierney assured that they have been presented with various handmade items that showcase the creativity and affection of their fans. He mentioned receiving “amazing cookies,” cosy blankets, and an array of friendship bracelets, capturing the goodwill generated by the series. Brady jestingly commented on the notable disparity between the types of gifts, saying, “But the butt plugs were definitely the most not safe for work.”
The GLAAD Media Awards proved to be a significant night for *Heated Rivalry*, as the victory for Outstanding New TV Series marks a pivotal moment for the show’s legacy. Following the awards celebration, Tierney confirmed that fans can anticipate a second season, which is set to premiere in April 2027, much to the excitement of its dedicated audience.
The series, which has resonated widely within the LGBTQ+ community, is based on the *Game Changers* book series by Rachel Reid. It focuses on the story of Shane Hollander, a talented Canadian hockey player portrayed by Hudson Williams, and Ilya Rozanov, a confident Russian hockey star played by Connor Storrie. The plot unfolds as these two characters engage in a fierce rivalry that takes root from their teenage years.
*Heated Rivalry* has found its home on Canadian streaming platform Crave and has also become available for international audiences through HBO Max. The first season caught viewers’ attention with its engaging storytelling and representation of LGBTQ+ characters within the sports narrative, breaking new ground for representation in the genre.
As the anticipation builds for the upcoming season, the enthusiasm surrounding the series continues to flourish. The creators’ open dialogue about the fan interaction and the overwhelming support they’ve received speaks volumes about the show’s impact. With the awards success and an expanding fanbase, *Heated Rivalry* is certainly a series to watch in the coming years.
In summary, the GLAAD Media Awards served as a testament to the show’s influence and the significant connection it has forged with its viewers. Both Brady and Tierney express immense appreciation for the love they receive and look forward to sharing more of their creative journey with the audience. The combination of heartfelt responses and playful gifts reflects the unique bond that has developed between the cast and its fans. As they prepare for the new season, *Heated Rivalry* stands poised to further enrich the LGBTQ+ entertainment landscape.