What Happened
At its upfronts presentation last June, Canadian streaming service Crave TV announced several new partnerships and series, including a revival of “Match Game” hosted by Martin Short in collaboration with Fremantle. Additionally, Crave revealed a co-development deal with Elliott Page’s Pageboy Productions, leading to the creation of “Slo Pitch.” Another notable announcement was the six-episode order for a new series titled “Heated Rivalry,” which focuses on a steamy romance involving hockey stars.
Why It Matters
Justin Stockman, VP of Content Development and Programming at Crave’s parent company Bell Media, expressed optimism about “Heated Rivalry,” highlighting its unique combination of gay themes and hockey, which he believes could spark significant interest. Despite initial skepticism regarding the show’s niche appeal, Stockman emphasized the importance of authenticity in storytelling, suggesting that a true representation of characters and themes could transcend perceived barriers.
What’s Next
“Heated Rivalry” is set to be featured at the upcoming 37th annual GLAAD Media Awards, where it is nominated for Outstanding New TV Series. The ceremony, which honors inclusive storytelling in media, will stream exclusively on Hulu later this month. The recognition at such a prestigious event underscores the growing importance of LGBTQ+ representation in television and could enhance the visibility and success of Crave’s new offerings.
