Enthusiastic viewers of the hit Canadian sports romance series Heated Rivalry are fervently hoping for a special 'bonus' episode to be released before the anticipated second series. This speculation has ignited across fan communities after eagle-eyed followers identified what they believe are tantalising teasers for a previously unannounced instalment.
A Rapid Rise to Popularity
Since its debut in November 2025, Heated Rivalry has swiftly amassed a dedicated and passionate fanbase, consistently climbing to the top of most-watched charts. The series, adapted from Rachel Reid's acclaimed Game Changer novels, centres on the complex relationship between rival professional hockey players Shane Hollander, portrayed by Hudson Williams, and Ilya Rozanov, played by Connor Storrie.
The narrative delves into their secret, passionate romance, which must remain concealed beneath a facade of intense animosity whenever they compete on the ice. The first season concluded after six compelling episodes, but fans are now convinced that a seventh might be imminent.
Clues Fueling Fan Theories
The belief in an extra episode stems from multiple online clues that have set the fandom abuzz. A significant hint emerged from an interview published in The Toronto Star, featuring cast members and executive producer Justin Stockman.
The article explicitly noted: 'Stockman says discussion about a stand-alone episode between seasons to tide fans over has "come up", but no decisions have been made.' This statement alone was enough to spark widespread hope and discussion.
Further fuel was added when fans scrutinising the TV database IMDb observed that the series was listed as having seven episodes, not the six that have aired. This discrepancy has been interpreted as a strong indicator of content yet to come.
Social Media Erupts with Speculation
Taking to social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter, viewers have been sharing their excited reactions and wild theories. The online conversation has been characterised by a mix of hope, demand, and playful desperation.
One ardent fan exclaimed: 'WE ARE GETTING A BONUS EPISODE????? CAN SOMEONE CONFIRM??' Another commented pragmatically, 'It's a possibility, I need it.' A third viewer pledged, 'I swear if this happens, I'll never ask for anything again,' while a fourth confidently informed others, 'It’s being discussed!'
The series masterfully unravels the budding romance of two closeted gay athletes navigating their feelings while competing in the hyper-masculine, high-stakes world of professional ice hockey. This unique premise has clearly resonated deeply with its audience.
Context: A Surge in Skating Dramas
This speculation arrives amidst a notable surge in popularity for ice-skating and hockey-themed dramas on streaming platforms. Netflix viewers have recently been lavishing praise on a new 'binge-worthy' drama titled Finding Her Edge, which debuted shortly after Heated Rivalry's success.
This Canadian teen drama, an adaptation of Jennifer Iacopelli's novel which is itself loosely based on Jane Austen's Persuasion, premiered last week and has rapidly shot up the most-watched charts in the UK and internationally.
The eight-episode series follows figure skating star Adriana Russo, played by Madelyn Keys, as she returns to the sport years after her gold-medallist mother's death. Faced with the chance to continue her family's Olympic legacy and save their financially struggling ice rink, she must partner with the last person she'd choose: the cocky bad boy Brayden, portrayed by Cale Ambrozic.
Critical Acclaim for the Newcomer
Finding Her Edge has been met with outstanding critical reception, boasting a perfect 100% score on the reviews aggregator site Rotten Tomatoes and securing the number five spot on Netflix's own most-watched chart.
Fans and critics alike have been effusive in their praise. One reviewer on Rotten Tomatoes noted: 'There are surprising stand out performances…that have me eager to see what they tackle next.' Another appreciated the show's balance, stating: 'It’s easy to watch but also really meaningful, and the characters feel genuine rather than overdone. The story pulls you in quickly, and by the end you actually want more.' A third hailed it as 'a perfect way to open up 2026 with a dramatic bang! The plot is genuinely entertaining.'
This parallel success story highlights a growing appetite for sports-centric romantic dramas, setting a promising stage for Heated Rivalry's future. For now, fans of the hockey romance can only wait and hope as the rumours of a bonus episode continue to circulate. Heated Rivalry is currently available to stream on Sky and NOW.
