Stephen Amell Slams Heated Rivalry’s Emmy Exclusion

Stephen Amell did not hold back when discussing “Heated Rivalry’s” absence from the Emmy nominations.

The actor, who doesn’t star in the show, explained why he believes the Canadian sports romance series deserved a nomination during a red carpet conversation with Etalk.

His comments have since stirred debate online over whether the series deserved recognition at the awards show.

Despite attracting significant viewership after its HBO Max debut, “Heated Rivalry” was absent from this year’s Emmy nominations because it was ineligible.

When asked about its exclusion during a red carpet interview, Amell argued it shouldn’t have happened. He added that he would be willing to sign a petition mentioned during the conversation to help prevent it from happening again.

“The Emmy should be a snapshot of what was relevant in television, and there was nothing more relevant in television this year than Heated Rivalry,” the actor told his interviewer.

It remains unclear whether an official petition currently exists or whether Amell has signed one.

Stephen Amell’s Heated Rivalry Defense Draws Pushback

Several online users disagreed with Amell’s comments about “Heated Rivalry’s” relevance on television.

“Its relevance was literally cause it had hot sports guys making out,” one user said, referencing lead characters Shane Hollander and Ilya Rozanov. “The stars have been outrageously overhyped & over rewarded.”

“That show was smut, basically soft porn, so it should be awarded at the Grabby’s, not at the Emmys,” another user argued.

“It was relevant. But it wasn’t good. Abysmal writing,” another commenter wrote.

Why Heated Rivalry Was Ineligible For The Emmys

“Heated Rivalry’s” absence from the Emmy nominations comes down to its production arrangements, not its content.

Adapted from a novel by Rachel Reid, the series was fully funded and produced by Canadian companies.

As a result, it does not meet the Primetime Emmys’ eligibility criteria for foreign productions. HBO Max acquired the series for distribution rather than joining as a production partner.

For the series to have been eligible, U.S. and foreign partners would have needed to collaborate financially and creatively before production began, with the intention of airing it on U.S. television.

Heated Rivalry Team Asks Fans To Give Season 2 Cast Space

Production on season two of the series is underway, but the team has a request for fans.

In a social media post, the show’s team asked fans to give the cast and crew space if they happen to come across a filming location.

“To our incredible fans and everyone who’s been sharing in the excitement for the show: Your support, enthusiasm, and kindness have meant the world to us,” the post began. “As we gear up for more Heated Rivalry, please help us in making it the best it can be.”

“If you happen to come across one of our filming locations, please give our cast and crew the space they need to do what they do best,” it continued.

Jacob Tierney Says Romance Is At Heated Rivalry’s Heart

The next installment of the series is expected to debut in April 2027, although full storyline details remain under wraps.

Fans are already eager for its return. Showrunner Jacob Tierney previously suggested that the series’ exploration of romance helps explain its appeal.

“It’s very romantic, I think that’s what it is. It has the hallmarks and trappings of a real classic romance,” he said during an interview with “CBS Mornings” in February.

“Years of yearning and longing; trying to get together and do the right thing for each other and not being able to,” he added about the lead characters.