The American television drama *Heated Rivalry*, featuring two male ice hockey players in a secret relationship, has gone viral in 2026, prompting Jesse Kortuem to come out as gay after years of feeling unwelcome in the sport. Growing up in Minneapolis, Kortuem withdrew from hockey at 17 due to his sexuality but found inspiration in the show to embrace his identity. He believes that the show’s positive reception among both LGBTQ+ and straight fans can foster acceptance in a sport that still lacks openly gay players. Despite the NHL’s mixed history with LGBTQ+ issues, including the elimination of Pride jerseys, the popularity of the show highlights a shift in attitudes toward gay athletes.
