The romantasy genre has been thriving lately, in films, novels, and book-to-screen adaptations. This typically isn't where my entertainment interests lie, perhaps because they're largely focused on straight couples. Sure, I've watched the steamy sex scenes in Bridgerton (which is streaming with a Netflix subscription), but I haven't felt like these projects are for me. That changed with Heated Rivalry, which recently started streaming with an HBO Max subscription. Because LGBTQ+ folks finally have their own sexy show to watch.
Over the past few years, there's been a ton of discourse about the power of LGBTQ+ representation in the media. Heated Rivalry tells the story of two male hockey players who start a secret sexual relationship. I decided to give the show a try after seeing clips go viral on Twitter, and I'm actually fully invested in the show.
