Heated Rivalry misses out on International Emmy nominations despite being submitted
Hudson Williams as Shane and Connor Storrie as Ilya in ‘Heated Rivalry’. (HBO/Crave)
The International Academy of Television Arts & Sciences has unveiled the 2026 International Emmy nominations, with fan-favourite series Heated Rivalry missing out despite being submitted.
The Academy announced 64 nominees over 16 categories, with 22 countries included. The UK led all territories with 14 nominations, followed by Brazil with nine and Spain with five.
Heated Rivalry, a Bell Media/Crave series that ran on HBO Max in the US, did not receive a nomination. A Bell Media representative confirmed the show had been submitted, according to Variety.
The series was eligible for an International Emmy, but it was not eligible for Primetime Emmy consideration because it was a Canadian commission with no US production partners.
International Academy president and CEO Bruce L Paisner said: “The International Emmy Awards are as competitive as ever, with an outstanding range of entries from around the world vying for a coveted nomination,” adding: “We look forward to bringing the global television community together to celebrate these exceptional programs and performances.”
Which shows made the cut
In the drama category, nominees included the UK’s A Thousand Blows, France’s Carême, Argentina’s Menem and India’s Real Kashmir Football Club.
Comedy nominees included the UK’s Man vs. Baby, alongside Argentina’s División Palermo season two, Spain’s Old Dog, New Tricks and India’s Vir Das: Fool Volume.
Winners will be announced on Monday, 23 November 2026.
What the snub means for Heated Rivalry
The International Emmy Awards recognise television programming produced outside the United States, separate from the US Primetime Emmys. The ceremony is typically held in New York City and attracts international TV talent, broadcasters and streamers.
The omission is likely to sting for Heated Rivalry, which has drawn strong fan attention.
Fans have already reacted online, with one saying: “I’m sorry but this makes no sense to me.” Another wrote: “Disappointing but competition must have been steep with such few categories.”
Either way, excitement is high for Heated Rivalry season two, which began production over the summer.
Earlier in September, Milla Jovovich joined the cast for season two in what was described as the show’s biggest celebrity addition yet.
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