Heated Rivalry wins major award for ‘biggest cultural impact’
Heated Rivalry season two is in the works. (Crave)
Gay hockey romance Heated Rivalry has scored one of television’s highest honours, taking home a Peabody Award on 23 April at the 86th annual ceremony.
The series, which is based on Rachel Reid’s bestselling Game Changers novels and directed by Jacob Tierney, was recognised for its powerful storytelling and what judges called “arguably the biggest cultural impact in television this year”.
The Peabody website stated the series took home the award for its ability to tackle “complex themes of sexuality and emotional connection, inspiring fans and promoting non-toxic masculinity, ultimately making what was arguably the biggest cultural impact in television this year”.
Since its debut in November 2025, the show has become a global phenomenon.
Alongside its Peabody win, the series has racked up major accolades, including a GLAAD Media Awards win and multiple Canadian Screen Awards, cementing its place as one of the most celebrated LGBTQ+ stories on screen currently.
The Peabody Awards, which honour storytelling that shapes culture and sparks conversation, selected ‘Heated Rivalry’ from more than 1,000 entries this year from categories including entertainment, documentary, news, podcast/radio, arts, children’s and youth, immersive and interactive media, and public service programming.
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