The article explores the surprising mainstream popularity of gay hockey romance, exemplified by the TV series 'Heated Rivalry,' among a diverse female audience. It delves into why women are drawn to these stories, highlighting themes of non-toxic masculinity, consent, equality, and an escape from misogyny and gendered power imbalances prevalent in traditional romance and real-life dating.
The article details the unexpected and widespread appeal of gay hockey romance, particularly the TV adaptation of Rachel Reid's 'Game Changers' series, 'Heated Rivalry,' among a diverse demographic of women. Initially dismissed by some, the show has captivated audiences with its 'super sexy' portrayal of two closeted professional hockey players, Shane and Ilya. Women are drawn to the series for several reasons, including its depiction of non-toxic, non-anxious masculinity, a strong emphasis on consent, and the absence of misogyny and gendered hierarchy often found in heterosexual romance. The genre, known as MLM (men loving men) romance, has roots in slash fan fiction from the 1970s, created by women for women, and offers an escape from the 'real-world threat of sexual violence,' unsatisfying dating experiences, and societal pressures. Fans, ranging from 64-year-old cynics to engaged 'sex negative' writers, praise the equality between partners, the fluid exploration of sexual and gender identities, and the freedom to indulge in fantasy without the 'baggage and hurt' of personal experiences. The article also touches on debates about fetishization versus appreciating non-abusive masculinity, and contextualizes the phenomenon within a broader cultural landscape marked by 'heteropessimism' and challenges to women's and LGBTQ+ rights, suggesting these stories offer a much-needed fantasy of equitable relationships.
