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January 15, 2026

Why Pittsburghers Should Watch 'Heated Rivalry'

City Cast Pittsburgh

Why Pittsburghers Should Watch 'Heated Rivalry'

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Hockey is having a big TV moment across the country — not for the sports, but for the gay sex and queer representation on HBO Max’s new breakout series “Heated Rivalry.” The show, which has already been renewed for a second season, is based on a book series by author Rachel Reid, who says portions of its focus were inspired by an imagined rivals-to-lovers relationship between Pittsburgh Penguins star Sidney Crosby and Washington Capitals winger Alexander Ovechkin. Host Megan Harris is tapping in fans across the City Cast network to talk about why this show has become such a hit and whether Pittsburghers should claim the connection.

Show some love to today's guests, City Cast Seattle creative producer Sam J. Leeds and City Cast DC senior producer Julia Karron.

Notes and references from today’s show:

  • GAY HOCKEY IS HAVING A MOMENT [City Cast Seattle]
  • 'Heated Rivalry,' the gay hockey romance taking over the internet, finds love in Pittsburgh [Post-Gazette]
  • ‘Heated Rivalry’ Star Hudson Williams Says Closeted Pro Athletes Have DMed Him [Them]

Learn more about the sponsors of this January 14th episode:

AIDS Free Pittsburgh

PA Preferred

P3R

Special Olympics

Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm.

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