Since its debut in November 2025, the queer hockey romance series Heated Rivalry has captivated audiences with the passionate and secretive relationship between its central characters, Shane Hollander and Ilya Rozanov, portrayed by breakout stars Hudson Williams and Connor Storrie. The show has gained a loyal following, celebrated for its blend of emotional storytelling and athletic spirit. With a second season already in development, set for a 2027 release, fans may find themselves seeking new content to enjoy in the meantime. Here are five shows that share a similar mix of intimacy, athleticism, and romance.
Fellow Travelers
For viewers intrigued by the complex relationship dynamics in Heated Rivalry, Fellow Travelers offers a captivating alternative. This historical romance and political thriller tells the story of Hawkins “Hawk” Fuller, played by Matt Bomer, and Tim Laughlin, portrayed by Jonathan Bailey. Their years-spanning romance unfolds against the backdrop of the McCarthy-era Lavender Scare, navigating societal challenges and personal risks. Adapted from the 2007 novel by Thomas Mallon, this Peabody Award-winning miniseries highlights significant historical events, from the Vietnam War to the AIDS crisis of the 1980s. Fellow Travelers is available for streaming on Paramount+.
Boots
Although recently canceled after its first season, Boots remains a noteworthy addition to any watchlist. This dramedy follows Cameron Cope, played by Miles Heizer, a closeted gay teenager from Louisiana who enlists in the United States Marine Corps in 1990. Set during a time when the military excluded queer individuals, the series explores themes of masculinity and queerness with humor and depth. Critics praised Heizer’s performance, contributing to the show’s impressive 90% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Viewers can find Boots streaming on Netflix.
A League of Their Own
While Heated Rivalry focuses on the intensity of ice hockey, A League of Their Own brings queer romance to the baseball diamond. This adaptation of the 1992 film, available on Prime Video, features new characters and storylines surrounding the formation of a women’s professional baseball team during World War II. Co-created by Abbi Jacobson, who also stars as Carson Shaw, the series showcases the journeys of women pursuing their dreams in a male-dominated sport, intertwining athletic ambition with romantic connections.
Young Royals
Another show that influenced the creators of Heated Rivalry is Young Royals. This Netflix teen drama follows Prince Wilhelm “Wille” of Sweden, played by Edvin Ryding, as he navigates his feelings for classmate Simon Eriksson, portrayed by Omar Rudberg. The series delves into themes of identity, class tensions, and the struggles of young love within a prestigious boarding school environment. Spanning three seasons and 18 episodes, Young Royals provides a compelling mix of angst and romance that resonates with audiences.
Looking
Finally, Looking stands out as a landmark queer dramedy that explores the lives of three gay friends—Patrick (played by Jonathan Groff), Agustín (played by Frankie J. Alvarez), and Dom (played by Murray Bartlett)—living in San Francisco. The series offers an authentic portrayal of modern-day queerness, capturing the nuances of dating and relationships in a more forgiving environment than that of the hockey world. Directed by Andrew Haigh, Looking is celebrated for its naturalistic storytelling and relatable characters, making it a compelling watch on HBO Max.
As fans eagerly await the next chapter of Heated Rivalry, these five shows provide excellent alternatives, each offering their unique blend of romance, drama, and the pursuit of dreams. Whether through the lens of sport or personal relationships, these series continue to explore the complexities of love and identity.
