Virgin River has long been Netflix’s cozy romance staple, winning fans with its slow-burn love story and small-town escapism. Now, HBO is stepping into the arena with a spicier alternative — and it might just be the perfect rebound show for fans waiting on new episodes.
Meet HBO’s Newest Hit: Heated Rivalry
Streaming now on HBO Max, Heated Rivalry brings a bold twist to the romance genre. Based on Rachel Reid’s Game Changers novels, the series follows professional hockey stars Shane Hollander (Hudson Williams) and Ilya Rozanov (Connor Storrie), whose fierce rivalry turns into an intense, slow-building romance.
Created by Letterkenny’s Jacob Tierney, the first two episodes are already live, offering a steamy blend of sports drama, forbidden attraction, and emotional tension. Hollander’s polished, all-Canadian image clashes sharply with Rozanov’s wild, carefree persona — making their connection even more electric.
Why Virgin River Fans Should Tune In
While Heated Rivalry trades small-town coziness for bright lights, fame, and professional sports, it shares the heart of what Virgin River fans crave: romantic escapism. The chemistry is strong, the emotional stakes are high, and the long-game love story promises to keep viewers hooked.
If you’re waiting (and waiting…) for Virgin River Season 7, HBO’s Heated Rivalry is the perfect new obsession to fill the void.
