Actor François Arnaud, known for his role in the popular Canadian series “Heated Rivalry,” has expressed his desire for the NHL to focus more on promoting diversity within the sport rather than just leveraging the success of the show for marketing purposes. Arnaud, a Montreal native who plays Scott Hunter, the closeted captain of the New York Admirals in the fictional Major League Hockey, emphasized the importance of real inclusivity on the ice.
“Heated Rivalry,” a romantic drama depicting the love story between two fictional professional male hockey players, has garnered significant attention since its debut on Bell Media’s streaming platform, Crave, and HBO Max in the U.S. Arnaud’s character, Scott Hunter, engages in a complex relationship with Kip, an openly gay man, and eventually comes out publicly, marking a crucial moment in the storyline.
As the show’s popularity continues to soar, Arnaud has been fielding inquiries about the reception from hockey enthusiasts and the broader hockey community. He believes that while the NHL has acknowledged the show’s impact, it should take concrete steps to embrace diversity authentically.
Arnaud pointed out instances where NHL teams have referenced “Heated Rivalry” in their promotions, such as the Boston Bruins’ social media post showcasing intense game moments with the caption “Heated rivalry.” He emphasized the importance of the league backing up these references with genuine actions that promote inclusivity.
NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman acknowledged being familiar with “Heated Rivalry,” praising it as a compelling narrative that has captured the league’s attention. However, he acknowledged the show’s provocative content and emphasized the need for a balanced approach in engaging with it, especially concerning younger audiences.
The NHL has faced scrutiny in the past regarding its commitment to diversity and inclusion, with some instances sparking controversy. Despite this, the league has highlighted initiatives like Pride Nights and the Pride Cup, showcasing its efforts to embrace the LGBTQ+ community within the hockey world.
“Game Changers” book series author Rachel Reid, whose work inspired “Heated Rivalry,” highlighted the real-world relevance of the series in addressing LGBTQ+ issues in sports. She noted the challenges faced by queer individuals in hockey and stressed the importance of creating a welcoming environment for all participants, regardless of their background or orientation.