Actor François Arnaud, known for his role in the popular Canadian series “Heated Rivalry,” has expressed his desire for the NHL to focus more on promoting diversity within the sport rather than solely capitalizing on the show’s success for marketing purposes. Arnaud, a Montreal native who is openly bisexual, portrays Scott Hunter, the closeted captain of the New York Admirals in the fictional Major League Hockey, in a storyline that involves a complex relationship with fellow players.
“Heated Rivalry,” a romantic drama centered around two fictional professional male hockey players who develop a romantic bond, has gained significant popularity since its debut on streaming platforms. Arnaud’s character, Scott Hunter, navigates a relationship with an openly gay man named Kip while also struggling to come to terms with his own sexuality.
Arnaud has been fielding inquiries about the reception of the show within the hockey community. He emphasized the importance of the NHL taking tangible steps to embrace diversity and inclusivity, beyond just acknowledging the show’s influence. Recent social media posts from NHL teams, like the Boston Bruins and Ottawa Senators, referencing “Heated Rivalry” have sparked conversations about the league’s commitment to supporting LGBTQ+ representation in hockey.
NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman acknowledged the impact of “Heated Rivalry” on the sport, noting the show’s ability to attract new fans while also acknowledging the need to balance the show’s content, which he described as “spicy,” within the league’s broader messaging on inclusivity.
The series, based on Rachel Reid’s “Game Changers” book series, delves into real-world issues faced by LGBTQ+ individuals in the hockey community. Reid highlighted the challenges and discriminatory attitudes that queer individuals encounter within hockey culture, emphasizing the need for a more inclusive and welcoming environment for all players, regardless of sexual orientation.
Beyond the fictional narrative of “Heated Rivalry,” real-life advocates within the hockey community are pushing for greater acceptance and support for LGBTQ+ players. Cedar Osso, a skills coach with Ottawa Pride Hockey, emphasized the importance of creating a safe and inclusive space for queer individuals within hockey, underscoring the ongoing need for progress in promoting diversity and equality in the sport.