If you’re still not over Shane Hollander and Ilya Rozanov’s emotionally charged cottage getaway, you’re not alone. Since its debut in late 2025, Heated Rivalry has become a breakout hit, captivating viewers with its mix of elite hockey, long-term yearning and unapologetically steamy romance.
Based on Rachel Reid’s beloved novel, the LGBTQ+ drama follows rival hockey stars — played by Hudson Williams and Connor Storrie — whose relationship unfolds across years of competition, secrecy and desire. With season 2 officially renewed but still months away, fans are searching for something to fill the void. Whether you’re craving angst, intimacy or just more time around the rink, here are six shows like Heated Rivalry to add to your watchlist while you wait.
1. The Boyfriend
This Japanese reality series puts 10 men under one roof for a month-long search for love. Streaming on Netflix, The Boyfriend trades scripted drama for raw emotion, quiet longing and surprisingly tender connections. Season 2 premieres Jan. 13, making it a perfect binge for fans who love watching relationships develop in real time.
2. Fellow Travelers
If Heated Rivalry hooked you with years-long emotional tension, Fellow Travelers delivers it on an epic scale. Starring Matt Bomer and Jonathan Bailey, the historical romance spans decades, beginning in the 1950s amid political repression. The series blends passion with heartbreak and remains one of the most talked-about queer dramas of recent years.
3. Young Royals
Forbidden love meets royal pressure in this Swedish hit. Young Royals follows Prince Wilhelm and scholarship student Simon as they navigate romance under intense public scrutiny. Like Shane and Ilya, the pair struggle to reconcile love with obligation. The story concluded in 2024, making it an ideal full-series watch.
4. Heartstopper
Adapted from Alice Oseman’s graphic novels, Heartstopper offers a softer but equally heartfelt take on queer romance. Centered on rugby player Nick Nelson and shy Charlie Spring, the series focuses on self-discovery, friendship and first love. Netflix has announced the story will conclude with a feature film instead of a final season.
5. Tell Me Lies
For viewers drawn to Heated Rivalry’s intensity and sexual chemistry, Tell Me Lies turns the heat up — and then sets everything on fire. The Hulu drama explores a deeply toxic, on-again-off-again college romance. Season 3 arrives Jan. 13, promising even more chaos.
6. The Mighty Ducks: Game Changers
If it’s hockey you miss most, this Disney+ spinoff delivers plenty of ice time. While lighter in tone and short on romance, The Mighty Ducks: Game Changers offers a nostalgic return to the rink with a lovable underdog team learning why they fell in love with the game.
While You Wait for the Puck to Drop Again
Season 2 of Heated Rivalry may still be a ways off, but these six shows offer plenty of yearning, chemistry and emotional payoff to keep fans satisfied — at least until Shane and Ilya return to the ice.
