Prime Minister Mark Carney offered glowing praise for the Canadian-made television series Heated Rivalry during a high-profile event in Ottawa, emphasizing how the show reflects core national values while addressing pressing global issues. The Prime Minister's remarks came at the Prime Time 2026 gathering, hosted by the Canadian Media Producers Association, where he highlighted the series' international success and its timely message.
A Symbol of Canadian Storytelling on the World Stage
Distributed through Bell Media's Crave streaming platform, Heated Rivalry has evolved into a worldwide phenomenon, captivating audiences far beyond Canada's borders. The show, which stars British Columbia's Hudson Williams and American actor Connor Storrie, has garnered attention on prestigious platforms including late-night television programs, the Golden Globes awards ceremony, and even Milan Fashion Week events. This global reach underscores the powerful appeal of Canadian creative content when given the opportunity to shine without compromise.
Personal Connection and Symbolic Gift
During the event's red carpet proceedings, Prime Minister Carney shared a warm embrace with actor Hudson Williams, who presented him with a meaningful gift: a Team Canada fleece jacket identical to the one worn by his character in the series. This gesture symbolized the intersection of national pride and personal storytelling that defines the show's essence. Carney used the occasion to connect the series' narrative to broader societal challenges facing LGBTQ communities worldwide.
LGBTQ Rights in a Divided Global Landscape
In his address to attendees, Prime Minister Carney articulated how Heated Rivalry arrives at a crucial historical moment when fundamental rights for 2SLGBTQI+ individuals face significant threats in numerous regions across the globe. "We live in an increasingly dangerous, divided and intolerant world," Carney stated emphatically, noting that the hard-won rights of LGBTQ communities are under active challenge even in countries where the show has achieved record-setting audience numbers.
The Prime Minister elaborated on this theme by emphasizing a foundational Canadian principle: "A fundamental Canadian value is that people should be able to be whoever they want to be. To love whoever they want to love." He praised the series for portraying the emotional journey of two professional hockey players who fall in love while navigating one of the sport's greatest rivalries, highlighting their shared fear of expressing their authentic selves fully.
Creative Integrity and Canadian Production
Carney specifically commended the show's creators, Brendan Brady and Jacob Tierney, for maintaining their artistic vision despite external pressures. He revealed that American studios had expressed interest in Tierney's concept but insisted on substantially diluting its content. "Studios south of the border were interested in Jacob's vision, but wanted to, shall we say, tone it down ... What's the point of that?" Carney recounted to enthusiastic applause from the audience.
The Prime Minister highlighted Tierney's decision to return to Canada rather than compromise his creative integrity, noting that the filmmaker turned down "a bigger budget" and "a bigger platform" to tell his story authentically. Carney praised Bell Media for supporting this uncompromising approach, allowing the creators to realize their vision without artistic concessions.
Political Context and International Tensions
While celebrating Canadian cultural achievements, Prime Minister Carney's evening of content appreciation unfolded against a backdrop of escalating trade tensions with the United States. President Donald Trump threatened to impose substantial tariffs on Canadian aircraft and decertify new planes manufactured in Canada unless Ottawa approved certain American-made jets. This development followed Carney's recent speech in Davos where he encouraged smaller nations to assert themselves in dealings with larger powers.
U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent subsequently cautioned the Canadian leader against adopting confrontational approaches, noting that Carney's political rise incorporated elements of anti-American sentiment that could complicate crucial trade negotiations. These diplomatic exchanges highlight the complex interplay between cultural diplomacy and economic relations that defines contemporary Canada-U.S. interactions.
Future Prospects and Industry Impact
Following its record-breaking debut season, Crave has officially greenlit a second installment of Heated Rivalry, ensuring that the series will continue to promote Canadian values on the global entertainment stage. Creators Tierney and Brady expressed their enthusiasm for the upcoming season, stating: "Watching our show become an international phenomenon has been extraordinary ... we can't wait to bring you even more of what you love."
Prime Minister Carney humorously acknowledged his role in supporting Canadian cultural funding, quipping: "I'm a politician, I'm not above taking credit for the Canadian funding that helped you share this story with the world ... I stood up to the Americans." This lighthearted remark underscored the serious commitment to nurturing homegrown creative talent that can compete internationally while staying true to authentic Canadian narratives.
