Overview
- Max’s hockey romance hit has been renewed, with Jacob Tierney set to adapt Reid’s The Long Game for Season 2 and the lead actors attached for future seasons, though writing and filming have not begun.
- Interest in the source material has surged, with the Heated Rivalry novel reaching No. 14 on the New York Times best-seller list in late December.
- Library app Libby reports a 698% jump in activity for Heated Rivalry over the 21 days after the TV premiere versus the prior 21 days.
- Readers are turning to the books for potential clues about Season 2, and outlets are sharing theories, but specific plot details for the show remain unannounced.
- Former NHL player Sean Avery says the show’s success could help pave the way for an openly gay NHL player, as sports writers and a former pro question whether the league’s public support reflects real change.