Overview
- Firstman told Vulture the show’s sex scenes were “not how gay people f***” and urged its leads to disclose their sexualities.
- François Arnaud questioned the idea of a single ‘authentic’ portrayal, noting closeted athletes may read differently from sceney LA characters, while Hudson Williams shared the comment and praised Firstman’s show.
- After widespread online backlash, Firstman posted an Instagram walkback saying he loves Heated Rivalry and would try to “get better” about his remarks.
- Crave confirmed a Season 2 pickup with HBO Max licensing U.S. rights, as the breakout adaptation continues its weekly Season 1 run through December 26.
- The cast and creators emphasized choreographed, heavily rehearsed intimacy directed by an intimacy coordinator, and the showrunner reiterated that asking actors about sexual orientation in casting is not permitted.