It’s fair to say that nobody saw the overwhelming success of HBO Max and Crave Originals’ “Heated Rivalry” this past holiday season coming. The groundbreaking show starring Hudson Williams and Connor Storrie as rival hockey players turned lovers garnered incredible viewership and a legion of passionate fans. The show’s queer leads and the nature of the subject matter made it stand out against the television landscape and had many people who may have never considered a gay sports show to be their cup of tea become staunch supporters of the series.
Now, you might be looking for something to watch to tide you over until that highly anticipated second season, so here are five shows and movies to check out to fill the void left in your heart by “Heated Rivalry.”
1.) “4Minutes”
The 2024 Thai series “4Minutes” may have a very different plot and tone than “Heated Rivalry,” but there are some key similarities that might make this your perfect next watch. “4Minutes” follows the story of Great, a man who suddenly gains the ability to see four minutes into the future. His newfound power allows him to influence the results of events, many of them very grim, in unexpected ways.
I hesitate to describe it further for fear of spoiling the incredible twists and turns, but know the show features a queer main lead, two same-sex relationships that contrast each other, and some very steamy intimate scenes, much like “Heated Rivalry.” Come for the gay romance, stay for the incredible storytelling and cinematography.
Be warned, though, this is a challenging show with a morally ambiguous protagonist and troubling plot points. It’s not for the faint of heart. Not to mention the steamy scenes are, well, abundant, but if that’s the kind of show you’re looking for, especially if “Heated Rivalry” scratched that particular itch for you, “4Minutes” is a great watch. Keep in mind, there are two versions of the show: the TV version and the “Sultrier Version.” Only watch the “Sultrier Version” if you want all the heat, uncut.
“4Minutes” is available for streaming in the U.S. on iQIYI and Viki.
2.) “10Dance”
This stylish Japanese film, based on a manga of the same name, premiered on Netflix at the end of 2025, and it offered fans of “Heated Rivalry” another rivals-to-lovers story to sink their teeth into. 10Dance follows the story of Latin Ballroom champion Suzuki Shinya and Standard Ballroom champion Sugiki Shinya as they begrudgingly work together to prepare for the prestigious 10Dance, a competition that tests dancers in 10 different categories in a grueling, stamina-testing matchup.
The Shinya’s are polar opposites, personality-wise and dance-wise, and they butt heads frequently, even as the growing attraction between them becomes undeniable. If you wanted another sport-adjacent queer story, “10Dance” might be the one for you. And don’t worry, your enjoyment of the film does not hinge upon whether or not you consider competitive ballroom a sport.
Just know that “10Dance” takes a more subtle approach to its romance. The Shinya’s relationship is fraught and nebulous throughout, and the ending may not give you the satisfying conclusion you want, though it’s likely this isn’t going to be the only installment in this franchise, so stay tuned.
“10Dance” is available for streaming in the U.S. on Netflix.
3.) “Let Free the Curse of Taekwondo”
This k-drama from 2024 tells the story of high schooler Do Hoe, who lives with his oppressive father in rural Korea. Do Hoe’s father owns a Taekwondo gym and is known for physically disciplining his students. Do Hoe’s life changes with the arrival of Ju Yeong, a boy who dreams of becoming a Taekwondo master. The two form a close bond, but a tragic incident and Do Hoe’s father’s abuse separate them. They reunite 10 years later with hefty amounts of baggage and the loss of their previous youthful exuberance as they joltingly try to rekindle their past love.
“Let Free the Curse of Taekwondo” is very much about vibes. The direction, cinematography, and music create a particular ambience that you won’t find in many shows. While the show lacks the burning hot scenes of “Heated Rivalry,” it makes up for it in heart. The backdrop of Taekwondo checks off the sport box nicely, and the show has a beautifully satisfying conclusion.
“Let Free the Curse of Taekwondo” is available for streaming in the U.S. on iQIYI.
4.) “Your Name Engraved Herein”
Based on a novel of the same name by DiFer, this 2020 Taiwanese film has a very different feel from “Heated Rivalry” save for its commitment to showing a queer relationship taking place in a space that doesn’t support them. Instead of professional sports, “Your Name Engraved Herein” takes place in Taiwan in 1987. It tells the story of two Christian high-school students, Jia Han and Birdy, whose love develops in the shadow of severe homophobia and civil unrest.
The film offers a glimpse into Taiwanese LGBTQ history and tells a heartfelt story of pure love and freedom. If you’re looking for a gay romance that’s a bit more somber, this might be the perfect film for you. Just be sure to bring a few tissues.
“Your Name Engraved Herein” is available for streaming in the U.S. on Netflix.
5.) “Friendly Rivalry”
And last but definitely not least, we have a show with a very similar title to “Heated Rivalry,” but a very different vibe. Don’t worry, you’ll still be getting some gay romance, though. Based on the webtoon “Friendly Competition” by Song Chae Yoon and illustrated by Shim Jae Young, “Friendly Rivalry” follows an orphan named Woo Seul Gi who transfers to the highly elite Chaehwa Girls’ High School in Seoul. Struggling to fit in, Seul Gi meets Yoo Je I, the beautiful, wealthy, and popular top student at the school. The two develop a complex relationship defined by rivalry, friendship, mistrust, and attraction.
If you were hoping for a sapphic story, “Friendly Rivalry” has you covered. The show features many twists and turns, but the heart of the show belongs to the complicated relationship between Seul Gi and Je I. Expertly acted, the main leads’ electric chemistry and nebulous relationship keep you on your toes. “Friendly Rivalry” is quite different from “Heated Rivalry” despite the very similar name, but it’s still a fun watch if you’re looking for stories with queer representation. Like “10Dance,” the romance is subtle and relies heavily on what is not said.
“Friendly Rivalry” is available for streaming in the U.S. on Netflix, Viki, and Amazon Prime Video.
Whether you’re looking for spice, feels, mystery, or anything in between, these five queer shows and movies are the perfect watch while you eagerly wait for more “Heated Rivalry.” There’s plenty of queer content out there in the world; consider this your sign to jump in.
Don't stop here
Every Score. Every Story. One Home.
Breaking sports, entertainment and news from across the Total Apex network, updated all day.
Get the Full Story →
