“Is ‘Heated Rivalry’ Transforming Canadian TV’s Global Appeal?”
Canada’s television landscape is experiencing a transformation with the success of “Heated Rivalry,” a captivating ice hockey romance. Sean Cohan, President of Bell Media, highlighted the show’s immense popularity, stating it could be one of the biggest hits ever from Canada.
Heated Rivalry: A Canadian Sensation
Produced by Brendan Brady under the Accent Aigu banner, “Heated Rivalry” has garnered significant attention since its launch on the CTV and Crave platforms. Cohan mentioned that this success is just the beginning, noting plans for more distinctive Canadian content in the future.
Future Endeavors in Canadian Television
Cohan’s recent leadership at Bell Media aligns with a strategic vision for expanding Canadian content globally. Following the acquisition of UK-based distributor Sphere Abacus, Cohan emphasized their commitment to creating unique content that appeals to diverse audiences.
- Upcoming Creations:
- Slo Pitch: A half-hour mockumentary featuring a queer softball team.
- Yaga: A mystery thriller starring Carrie-Ann Moss and others, based on a play by Kat Sandler.
During recent London TV Screenings, Cohan reflected on the previously underestimated potential of the Canadian market. He pointed to “Heated Rivalry” as evidence of the vibrant creative landscape in Canada.
The Impact of Streaming Growth
Crave has experienced substantial growth, adding approximately 1.5 million subscribers over the past two years. Currently, Crave has around 4.6 million subscribers, with Canadian originals dominating viewership. Six of the ten most-watched shows during the holiday period were Canadian productions.
Measurement of Success
Cohan indicated that the arrival of “Heated Rivalry” has positively influenced subscriber numbers. Many new subscribers are drawn to the series, with statistics showing that a significant portion has re-watched it multiple times. Approximately one-third have viewed it more than twice, with some reporting double-digit viewings.
Despite its popularity, “Heated Rivalry” is not eligible for Emmy awards. Cohan acknowledged this but emphasized that the show has received considerable recognition and enjoys strong viewer loyalty.
Shaping the Future of Canadian Content
Bell Media aims to capitalize on the ongoing buzz surrounding “Heated Rivalry” to elevate a new era of Canadian television shows. Cohan remarked on the goal of positioning Bell Media at the forefront of this transformative moment in Canadian entertainment. As “Heated Rivalry” continues to shine, it may set the stage for a wider appreciation of Canadian drama on the global map.
