Former NHL player Sean Avery has expressed his opinions on the new gay hockey romance series, Heated Rivalry. The show is available on both Crave and HBO Max, and Avery’s reaction highlights both the show’s merits and shortcomings. At 45 years old, Avery reflected on his experiences in the league and the possibility of LGBTQ+ representation in professional hockey.
In an interview with Rolling Stone, Avery stated, “I don’t know firsthand of any gay players past or present.” He acknowledged, however, that he suspects he may have had a closeted teammate during his twelve-season career in the NHL. Avery emphasized the importance of visibility, noting that the success of Heated Rivalry could pave the way for the first openly gay player in the NHL, should one exist.
Avery, while not part of the LGBTQ+ community himself, has been a steadfast ally. He appeared in a 2011 Human Rights Campaign video advocating for same-sex marriage, showcasing his commitment to supporting LGBTQ+ rights. This background adds weight to his commentary on the representation of gay athletes in sports.
When discussing the show, Avery offered a candid review. He humorously described it as “the worst hockey show ever made,” but acknowledged that it is “the most incredible gay hockey show ever made.” He admitted to enjoying the series despite finding some of the content graphic, stating that he often looks away during the more explicit scenes.
In addition to his thoughts on Heated Rivalry, Avery also released a hockey romance book titled Summer Skate, co-authored with Leslie Cohen. The book, which debuted earlier this year, adds to his exploration of themes related to love and sports. Fans interested in hockey romance can find it available for purchase on platforms like Amazon.
As the conversation around LGBTQ+ representation in sports continues to grow, Avery’s insights contribute to a broader dialogue about acceptance and visibility in professional athletics. His support for the community and candid reflections on the series highlight a shift in the cultural landscape of hockey, encouraging further discussions about the experiences of players who identify as LGBTQ+.
