Former NHL player Sean Avery has expressed his views on the new gay hockey romance series Heated Rivalry, which is available on Crave and HBO Max. The 45-year-old, known for his 12 seasons in the NHL, shared insights on the series and the potential impact it could have on the representation of LGBTQ+ players in professional hockey.
During an interview with Rolling Stone, Avery stated, “I don’t know firsthand of any gay players past or present. That being said, I do think I must have had a gay closeted teammate at some point in my career.” His comments reflect a growing conversation around the visibility of LGBTQ+ athletes in sports, a topic that has gained increased attention in recent years.
Avery believes that the success of Heated Rivalry could pave the way for the emergence of the first openly gay player in the NHL. He noted, “Perhaps Heated Rivalry’s success should open the door for the first gay NHL player, if there is one.” This sentiment resonates with many advocates for inclusivity in sports, emphasizing the importance of representation for younger athletes who may be navigating their own identities.
While Avery does not identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community, he has been a longstanding ally, having appeared in a 2011 Human Rights Campaign video advocating for same-sex marriage. His support for LGBTQ+ rights has positioned him as a notable voice in discussions about equality in sports.
Regarding the series itself, Avery expressed a mixed review. He humorously remarked, “I love Heated Rivalry. It’s the worst hockey show ever made, but the most incredible gay hockey show ever made. Sometimes I look away from the TV; it’s pretty graphic.” Despite his critiques of the hockey portrayed in the series, Avery’s enthusiasm highlights the cultural significance of LGBTQ+ narratives in sports media.
In addition to his commentary on the series, Avery has recently ventured into literature, co-authoring a hockey romance novel titled Summer Skate with Leslie Cohen. The book dives into themes of love and hockey, further showcasing Avery’s engagement with the romance genre. The novel is available for purchase on Amazon.
As conversations about representation and inclusivity continue to evolve within professional sports, figures like Sean Avery play a vital role in promoting understanding and acceptance. His insights on Heated Rivalry not only spotlight the importance of LGBTQ+ representation but also reflect a broader cultural shift within the sports community.
