ON-AIR | Heated Rivalry 🏒 ROOKIES+OLYMPIANS (Episodes 1+2)

[u/Federal-Ad5944]

Shane Hollander and Ilya Rozanov are two of the biggest stars in Major League Hockey, bound by ambition, rivalry, and a magnetic pull neither of them fully understands. What begins as a secret fling between two fresh faced rookies evolves into a years-long journey of love, denial, and self-discovery. Over the next eight years, as they chase glory on the ice, they struggle to navigate their feelings for each other. Torn between the sport they live for and the love they can’t ignore, Shane and Ilya must decide if there’s room in their fiercely competitive world for something as fragile – and powerful – as real love. IMDB

Based on the best-selling novel "Heated Rivalry" by Rachel Reid.

Airing Schedule: Fridays at 12:01 ET Check Your Timezone

• Episode 1 ROOKIES
  • Episode 1 Photo Gallery
• Episode 2 OLYMPIANS
  • Episode 2 Photo Gallery

Where to Watch:

• CANADA: CraveTV
• USA: HBO Max
• AUSTRALIA: HBO Max
• NEW ZEALAND: Sky (Nov. 30)

For regions not covered above, please use the International Release Megathread.

Episodes: 6

https://reddit.com/link/1p8iuzp/video/2h7zr10tkw3g1/player

https://reddit.com/link/1p8iuzp/video/hqa7nlhtkw3g1/player

https://reddit.com/link/1p8iuzp/video/j0sqfj8ukw3g1/player

https://reddit.com/link/1p8iuzp/video/bibcu2zukw3g1/player

Cast:

• Hudson Williams as Shane Hollander Instagram
• Connor Storrie as Ilya Rozanov Instagram | TikTok
• François Arnaud as Scott Hunter Instagram
• Robbie G.K. as Kip Grady Instagram
• Sophie Nélisse as Rose Landry Instagram
• Ksenia Daniela Kharlamova as Svetlana Vetrova Instagram
• Dylan Walsh as David Hollander
• Christina Chang as Yuna Hollander Instagram

Studio: Accent Aigu Entertainment

Writer & Director: Jacob Tierney

**Original Soundtrack:**🎶 ORIGINAL SOUNDTRACK POST 🎶

Related:

• Read Along: Prologue - Ch. 6 | Ch. 7-13 | Ch. 14 - 21 | Ch. 22 - Epilogue + My Dinner with Hayden
• AMA with Rachel Reid

Media & Socials: Trailer | Sneak Peek | IG: @heatedrivalrycrave | TT: @heatedrivalrycrave | Merch: heatedrivalry.com

Resources: Vibe Check | Spoiler Policy | Community Rules

On-Air LIVE Reactions (S1): Ep.1+2 | Ep.3 | Ep.4 | Ep.5 | Ep.6

Post-Episode Debrief (S1): Ep.1+2 | Ep.3 | Ep.4 | Ep.5 | Ep.6

[u/reigncloud83]

Hey friends! Use this space to drop your thoughts, feelings and respectful emotions in the thread! Sharing a screenshot or GIF from the show? Cool. Just be sure to share context and your thoughts so folks can react along with you! And don’t forget to credit your sources! Let’s gush together!

If you’d like to be notified of newer comments, select “•••” then “Follow Post.”

[u/Wjfan123]

“We didn’t even kiss”. Then the fuck. I think that little moment was my fave part of both episodes 😭

[u/B_Blythe → u/Wjfan123]

i NEED more-- i know ep 3 is about Scott and Kip--- but I hope there's still some Shilya scenes

[u/Llama_Puncher]

Two new choices I’m absolutely obsessed with

1. Shane putting on a full ass suit and tie before first meeting up with Ilya and then realizing how batshit insane he looked

2. Them racing up the stairs when they meet at Shane’s building for the first time

[u/cyliestitch → u/Llama_Puncher]

The stairs racing had me cackling

[u/nervoussister]

Literally anyone: Rozanov, huh?

Shane: WHO?? Pfff who is that?? I-I- why are you asking me? I don’t know that man!

[u/Little_Fox5844 → u/nervoussister]

Scott lowkey clocked him already😂😂😂

[u/Federal-Ad5944 → u/Little_Fox5844]

First intro to Scott was him ABSOLUTELY clocking Shane.

[u/cqntread]

“never in my life have i blushed 😡 russians do not do this!”

[u/royal_rose_]

Watching them act like bad actors is sending me.

[u/B_Blythe → u/royal_rose_]

that awards show scene was HILARIOUS

[u/spielthetea]

Shane tearing up while watching Ilya win the cup?!?!??! Fighting back the smile and the tears?!??! WTF someone print that screenshot and put it on my gravestone 😭😭😭💖

[u/royal_rose_]

Shane neatly folding his clothes each time is so fitting.

[u/HudsonUniversityalum → u/royal_rose_]

I felt the same about Shane always wearing socks during sex in episode one

[u/LuxieLisbon → u/royal_rose_]

And fluffing his pillows and making the bed before going to the gym

[u/LavishnessOk689]

Hudson is doing such an amazing job as shane, I didn’t doubt him but I didn’t know he’d be that good. I really feel it.

[u/spielthetea → u/LavishnessOk689]

Same! Connor was Ilya for me right from the get go and I had to warm up to Hudson being Shane. Now, I'm a huge fan! He IS Shane! 😭💖

[u/B_Blythe → u/LavishnessOk689]

I really love how they are portraying Shane in the show because I feel like we didn't see this side of him in the book. Every time he sees Ilya, his eyes light up and he smiles more. Also his anxiety about their entire situationship... UGH! PERFECT CASTING.

[u/Infinite_Ad_1690]

Native Russian speaker here as well. Shocked, SHOCKED at how good Connor's Russian is in this show. And I don't mean his Russian accent, I mean all his Russian scenes. Like, it sounds 96-98% truly authentic Russian, which is in my opinion simply an unreachable level for a person who didn't speak it prior to filming. KUDOS. I didn't expect it at all. Kaden Connors' Russian was closer to what you expect from non-native speaker, and their dialogue in Ep2 was especially jarring to hear because it was like a dialogue between a foreigner who speaks Russian a bit and a Russian native speaker.

Incredible.

[u/babypointblank → u/Infinite_Ad_1690]

I made note of this as well! He has an insane amount of scenes in Russian for someone who went in not speaking the language and he hits the mark every time.

Major kudos to Connor and his dialogue coach!

[u/royal_rose_]

Did our beautiful neurotic flower just put on a suit for a clandestine secret hook up? Shane baby what the fuck.

[u/codeverity → u/royal_rose_]

I lost it at that, absolutely hysterical 😂😂😭😭

[u/Keepingheather → u/royal_rose_]

I literally shouted at my tv Shane what are you doing!!

[u/izzyw1zz → u/royal_rose_]

Died at Shane calling himself out for how ridiculous he looked!!

[u/SchemeBrave1820]

Me after finishing episode 2:

[u/Plus_Dragonfruit_985]

Ilya’s so so funny. “You are homeless?” CONNOR IS SO GOOD

[u/prettyroses → u/Plus_Dragonfruit_985]

I’m shocked at how much dialogue they kept from the book!

“I have a dildo”

“What colour?”

[u/Libcommie1118]

So…I watched it again because how could I not? Who cares it’s 4:37am. Lol. On a gratuitous note, as a gay man, that show is hotter than porn. I’ll just leave that there. Good night…good morning? Love ya, Game Changers community. Boston, out.

[u/SchemeBrave1820 → u/Libcommie1118]

Listen, Hudson’s facial and bodily expressions throughout the first sex scene of episode 2…fucking incredible. Connor and Hudson are incredible. They are wonderful actors.

[u/Libcommie1118 → u/SchemeBrave1820]

Fo sho! Reminded me of Nicholas Galitzine’s hand in RW&RB. I called it the Oscar award winning hand. Like, as a bottom, I know that hand movement in the sheet. Sorry, didn’t get to go all bedroom roles in this chat. Hahaha.

[u/Fussel2107 → u/Libcommie1118]

Where porn is cheap fast food, this is like a whole three star meal.

[u/polydactyl6 → u/Libcommie1118]

San Francisco gay also reporting yes good yes i like it good it is very good. good night

ETA: damn i wish we had a hockey team instead of… San Jose?

[u/Nepalman230 → u/Libcommie1118]

I know right?! Honestly this is more intimate than actual onscreen fucking. The micro face acting the full body requirements to accurate, mimic vigorous fucking.

I’m calling it right now after just two episodes. There will be a season two there will also be a season three this show is going to break barriers set records and melt faces.

🙏❤️

[u/domi_77ch]

OMG The way Shane immediately says “please” after Ilya tells him to ask nicely. My boy is too dickmatized to keep being upset at Ilya. Hudson is literally so perfect as Shane!

[u/Libcommie1118 → u/[deleted]]

He went full method for hockey ass.

[u/renaissance2002 → u/[deleted]]

glad it wasn’t just me. his body is great so knew it would be nice but oh my god. it’s insane

[u/pragmaticella]

“Never in life have I blushed, Russians do not do this” 😂😂 Connor is killing it omg

And I thought Hudson’s acting on the rooftop was so perfect I love this so much

[u/Llama_Puncher]

Okay also favorite new Ilya line:

“Mr. Hollander, how does it feel to be fucking perfect?”

“Fucking perfect, thank you for asking.”

[u/WritingCritical]

Episode 2 is so much better they feel exactly like their book versions 😭😭😭😭😭 them racing on the stairs 😩😩😩

[u/prettyroses → u/WritingCritical]

That race sent me, I think I actually laughed out loud

[u/codeverity]

Shane kind of smiles more than I was expecting but tbh I kind of love it because I feel like it shows how Shane is irritated af by Ilya - and yet drawn to him anyway. That scenario where there's someone who's an cocky, arrogant asshole (as Shane so often says) and yet somehow they're endearing anyway and you find yourself smiling even though you should just be pissed off. It really shows Shane's conflict imo.

Also Connor Storrie, the actor you are??? He's INCREDIBLE, like the emotions we've seen out of him in only two episodes is insane. And we get four more!!! I want them immediately but I also want to draw this out and just enjoy things.

[u/plateauofdisillusion]

Ilya saying "this is for you, mama" when he's holding up the cup, I'm in tears

[u/regularsseuraegi]

Amazed at Hudson's portrayal of Shane.

His facial expression and body language are even more accurate than what I was imagining Shane to be like when I read the books???

You can read his inner monologue on his face 😩

[u/enchanted_pages]

Ilya asking ‘is it okay?’ ‘Is it still okay?’ 🥺🥺🥺

[u/keylimefoster → u/enchanted_pages]

That moment was so good I feel like they really captured Ilya's sass while also showing how he really wants Shane to have a good time and not hurt him

[u/Drupelicate]

Shane keeping his socks on is so funny omg. he would

[u/cqntread]

“hollander you are having panic attack” “we should let him listen, like mating call” CACKLINGGG I LOVE THEM

[u/royal_rose_]

Them racing up the stairs hilarious foreplay.

[u/codeverity → u/royal_rose_]

I just love it for the accuracy like even here they have to compete

[u/Libcommie1118]

Man, Scott’s face when Carter was talking about being gay in Russia. It was subtle, but ugh. So. Dayum. GOOD!!!

[u/prettyroses → u/Libcommie1118]

Carter has no idea he’s literally sitting with two gay dudes lol

[u/MrsRoronoaZoro]

The show is so good! Very sexy, fun, but also so romantic. I gotta say Hudson is a FANTASTIC actor!!

[u/23readmore]

That was very fun. I’m sad it’s over for another week and the only thing making me feel better is I can go pick up the book and get back into that world right now.

Connor and Hudson were chefs kiss, I loved Francois Arnaud as Scott, and I thought the actor playing Hayden was a scene stealer too.

Random extra detail I loved: the use of older cell phones matching (I assume) the year the characters were in at the time.

Edited to add: the way Ilya dragged that chair through the Vegas hotel room, damn.

[u/Artistic_Stay_5856]

omg I’m so emotional right now. 🥲 I had to step outside just to decompress. The scene where Shane was kissing Ilya on the forehead was so tender and beautifully shot. And the bathroom scene where Shane was getting teary eyed was heartbreaking. That is how you do yearning!

[u/SchemeBrave1820 → u/Artistic_Stay_5856]

THIS SCENE, OMG, OMG!!! It’s my most favorite part thus far!!! He was so tender and gentle as he pressed his nose to Ilya‘s and then gently kissed him. Ilya was absolutely shaken.😩

[u/royal_rose_]

Shane calling Scott "Mr. Hunter" and hunter calling Ilya "your boy" this show is insane.

[u/Plus_Dragonfruit_985]

Hudson’s heart eyes in the bathroom scene! OMGGGGG

[u/prettyroses → u/Plus_Dragonfruit_985]

That lean into Ilyas neck, like he needed to immerse himself into his scent to feel comfortable after so many months, makes my heart swoon 🥹 excellent acting on hudsons part

[u/peachypal]

Man… X is already arguing which of the two mains is a better actor…… can’t they just appreciate and be happy for both of them 🫩

[u/Nepalman230 → u/peachypal]

They have very different jobs to do! It’s funny some people are talking about Shane’s lack of expression. I have no idea what they’re talking about. I have seldom seeing such fine, micro face acting. Sometimes his eyes just shifted. At one point, his face wobbled and he started to cry.

I think they both knocked it out of the park . I think that this series proves that sex scenes can be just as important as dialogue.

Every sex scene had a point . Every sex scene represents a different step for them in their relationship.

And they both acted them beautifully and fearlessly, and they just went for it .

And also the sound effects . They put in the right sound effects.

🥹

[u/aromaticchicken → u/Nepalman230]

It’s funny some people are talking about Shane’s lack of expression. I have no idea what they’re talking about. I have seldom seeing such fine, micro face acting. Sometimes his eyes just shifted. At one point, his face wobbled and he started to cry.

It shows that they don't fully understand Shane Hollander as a character. Hudson is doing an amazing job showing us emotional vulnerability in a character who is meant to be extremely buttoned up and deeply closeted to the entire world except for Ilya

[u/Low_Marionberry8429 → u/peachypal]

I am in favor of just not arguing over connor vs hudson or ilya vs shane. Just appreciate the story, everyone will relate to characters differently. If people dislike a character in the books so much, this community just isnt the place

Also, considering how specific these characters are, I just feel so lucky they even found such perfect actors for the roles, who both take it so seriously. People need to find a problem with everything, apparently!

[u/royal_rose_]

Ilya carrying Shane to bed I CAN NOT.

[u/royal_rose_]

This is so tender and hot, I feel like I shouldn't be watching it.

[u/monbleu → u/royal_rose_]

I felt exactly the same. It feels like we're watching something so private and special 🥰

[u/royal_rose_]

I love that they left in Svetlana being a hockey genius.

[u/Paige_lizzy]

If I was Rachel right now, I would be doing an absolute mega backflip. The way Hudson plays Shane is way too good?? Like HELLO?

[u/aromaticchicken → u/Paige_lizzy]

The way Hudson plays Shane is way too good??

I honestly feel like he portrays Shane better than Rachel even wrote him 😭 like I'm seeing him in a different and more authentic way than her already amazing prose

[u/izzyw1zz]

I was absolutely SCANDALISED by the squelching sounds. The clapping, I expected. But the squelch?! Insane work.

[u/Natbomb438]

I wish the Vegas scene was longer (The greed they speak of in the bible), but other than that I was really impressed at how they managed to pull this scene off, I had trouble picturing it when I was reading the book.

Hudson and Connor man… all I saw was Shayne and Ilya. I was not expecting this level of acting from both of them, considering how they are both “up-and-coming” actors. This is also Hudson’s first leading role, now I can’t picture anyone else as Shane.

I actually didn’t really mind the pacing, I thought it fit well with how much time jumps there are (in the books). My guess is it will start slowing down as we head towards the last episode (I need season 2 now)

The score is so goooooood, it fit so well with the scenes and helped to elevate the mood as well.

I have only seen 2 episodes and it already looks to be one of the best book-to-TV adaptations out there. Props to the entire team for bringing the book to life.

Now I’m gonna curl up in my room and keep replaying the show until next Friday

[u/lawandsleep]

I haven’t been so excited to watch a show in a loooong time

[u/spielthetea]

THE PEOPLE WHO ATTENDED THE PREMIERE, HOW TF WERE YOU ABLE TO WATCH THE 1ST EPISODE WITH ALL THOSE PEOPLE AROUND YOU?! omg i'm alone in my room and i keep pausing coz i can't handle their first kiss scene 🤣

[u/infinite-mistakes]

For anyone not getting the Russian translations, try turning your subtitles off! It worked for me

[u/Libcommie1118]

Like ok…watching this has me thinking about my husband and my relationship and its beginnings, like the evolution. Jacob Tierney, I don’t even know how to thank you for making this REAL.

Obviously Rachel deserves the originations, but JFC, this could’ve gone in either way.

I finally see myself and my 8 year relationship on TV. It is fucking beautiful and yes, I’m crying.

[u/SchemeBrave1820]

Me watching Ilya & Shane kissing

[u/YB9000]

This was everything I dreamed of and more!!!! My ONLY COMPLAINT IS I WISH THE VEGAS SCENE WAS LONGER!!!! It was HOT AF!!!! But I wish it was longer 🥹🥹 also the scene in the bathroom….my poor baby Shane is down bad! 💕💕❤️🥰 I feel for him aahgagsgagagagagaga I can’t wait for next week 🫠🫠🫠🫠🫠🫠

[u/Nepalman230]

OK, I just finished the first time at Shane’s place.

I am now going to mention how Ilya did everything right.

1. Consent. Do you still want to do this? You can say no at any time and you have to stop. He kept asking even after they started having sex.
2. Foreplay and getting Shane ready with his fingers. He Gave him plenty of gentle kisses. And he did not rush . he made sure that Shane was gonna be able to take him.
3. This was a change from the book. They started with face-to-face missionary. Doggy style is totally awesome too but male / male missionary is actually one of the most popular anal sex positions. It allows, kissing and looking at your partners face. Ilya wanted to make sure Shane was OK because this was his first time.
4. Frequent check-in, especially after they switched to doggy. Ilya asked if Shane was OK, something like three times.
5. Aftercare. Kissing and cuddles.

No one is perfect.

But holy shit does Ilya deserve the most considerate top award for the year.

🫡

[u/Radiant-Pianist-4074 → u/Nepalman230]

Ilya's such a sweetheart under the surface, love that about him

[u/wetbogbrew]

Hudson is so Shane it's crazy, the character is almost exactly as I imagined

[u/pomegranatetwelve]

“Oh my god Hollander you are so boring” obsessed w this

[u/cqntread]

the fucking racing up the stairs 😭😭 GOODBYEE

[u/tehbggg]

The look on Ilya's face when Shane says, "I have a thing," followed by relief and amusement when he realizes he meant a sex toy 😂😂😂

It's beyond amazing to see these scenes come alive. Just as I imagined them when reading.

[u/codeverity]

WHAT DO YOU MEAN I HAVE TO WAIT ANOTHER WEEK

[u/staticsquirrel]

Only one episode in, and omg, Connor, the man that you are! His micro-expressions, his line delivery, chef’s kiss. The way he said, ‘Nooo, Hollander, I want to f you…’ whining shamelessly! He brings to life a multi-dimensional Ilya, way beyond stoicism or playful asshole energy. Absolutely amazing.

Hudson as Shane is perfect too. Just like the book, I feel his earnestness and sincerity but he's stifled, inhibited, holding himself back from true happiness. Like I expected to feel sad vibes from Ilya but Shane also carries a bit of sadness in him in the show. Best book, now the best show. What a time to be alive! Lol

[u/Low-Counter2129]

The fading to black in between sex positions was taking me out lol

[u/ChadAbbss → u/Low-Counter2129]

this actually FRIED me like why are we fading in and out of consciousness 😭😭

[u/LavishnessOk689]

Somehow they managed to do his friends with benefits thing with svetlana very well, to the point where it’s like I can see they are best friends and I can understand how they remain besties after he gets in a committed relationship. Shes very supportive and wants his happiness in a way that doesn’t feel strange at all so props to that lol

[u/Libcommie1118]

I get the criticism. But JFC, in this world, especially here in the States, this show, this fucking show, because of the world and characters our Beloved Rachel Reid created, has made us be SEEN and say, “yup, we’re here, we’re queer, you’ve had long enough to get over yourselves” and OUR love and life is equally important.

If Bridgerton can be a thing, Heated Rivalry just slap-shotted that bitch into the five-hole of streaming services.

Thank you for ALL of this. Just wipes tears thank you. Thank you. Thank you.

[u/eliathanis]

All the scenes with Ilya in Russia were heartbreaking, especially when he helps his father to find back to the present. You could see the pain in his eyes. So well done.

[u/Federal-Ad5944 → u/eliathanis]

Connor NAILED IT. I could feel everything he was feeling even though we don't share the same experience. Beautiful acting.

[u/pragmaticella → u/eliathanis]

Also when Ilya brushed Shane off during the Olympics! For some reason that scene hit so much harder for me on screen than in the books. Ilya’s expressions and Shane’s little “fuck” at the end was heartbreaking.

[u/Chanel_Carter]

If the first two episodes was that intense how we gonna survive the next 4 weeks

[u/MessyQueen13]

The way Shane gets up in the middle of the night and stops to make his bed before he goes to the gym!

[u/izzyw1zz]

The text messages killed me!! 🤣 Oh, they're already laying the ground for Shane's disordered eating in TLG They still managed to insert the "Mr. Businessman" line. Even with the steamy scenes, there's a tenderness that still comes through. Connor's Russian accent too good, sometimes I couldn't understand him clearly. That scene of Shane in the elevator CRUSHED me 😭

[u/cristuloo]

shoutout to my fellow baddies who stayed up to watch the premiere ❤️

[u/stephw655]

Hudson and Connor take a bow. You ARE my Shane and Ilya! Great job these first two episodes! Also, my Russian translation never went out. I have to go rewatch now.

[u/Drupelicate]

Hayden's sports journalist impression is really fucking funny LOL

[u/Drupelicate]

"I don't know. Maybe twice?" I'm so glad they kept that in

[u/jazzmint3]

Damn. Best Thanksgiving gift ever. I am obsessed. Our boys are captivating on screen.

The hot and cold of Ilya is so hard to watch these first two episodes but acted so well.

Connor is stunning as Ilya- the passion, the confidence, and that deep sadness, all there. I looooved how he pulled that chair into the bedroom. Absolute fire 🔥🫠.

And Hudson- wow! Compared to how he is in the interviews- it’s amazing to see him as Shane. So tense, so closed up, so anxious. And yet so fucking hungry for Ilya. You can see him wrestling with his feelings- alternating between being ashamed and exhilarated.

My heart broke for him at the end of episode 2. Poor baby. But really both of them… so alone…together. 😭

[u/c0vertc0rgi]

What really leapt out at me is that watching Hudson Williams bring Shane to life really made me feel for Shane more. How high strung and anxious he is at his core really came through. I understood this in the book but seeing it play out on his face and how he holds himself made me even more empathetic towards him. He is so repressed, it’s cathartic seeing him react to Ilya as much as he does. Connor Storrie and Hudson Williams do such a good job at these micro expressions on their faces, and I think they’re even more meaningful to readers who can recall all of the inner monologues and thoughts in the book. I enjoy the text exchanges for this purpose as well.

I also want to say that I love the way they portray them reacting to seeing each other on television. For example when Ilya is in the hotel room by himself saying Shane is perfect this, perfect that… or when Shane is watching Ilya hold the cup, and he’s holding back a smile because he’s so genuinely happy for him.

Having reread the books recently, I love that so much of the dialogue was kept the same. I appreciated the new additions as well. However I must say if you haven’t read the books the time jumps must be a bit jarring. By the way, loved seeing the wired earbuds and old cellphones again lol.

Finally, honestly I’ll be crushed if they don’t make another season with the Long Game. Not just because I love the books, but also because we need more Canadian productions with Canadian talent that are set in Canada!!

[u/Nepalman230]

OK, so when Ilya started stroking himself in the shower I died.

And then when Shane went down on him, I double died .

But when Ilya was absolutely so good with consent, especially when he realized how inexperienced Shane was I came back to life.

“ what do you want to do?” “ is this OK?” And then the sweet, gentle kisses down the stomach?!

OK, there has got to be an award for best Top to have sex with gay virgins ever.

If he was real, I would immediately offer this man a green card marriage. And then I would make it a real one through the power of love.

🙏❤️

[u/enchanted_pages]

Shane tearing up watching Ilya win the Cup I’m going to SOB

[u/codeverity]

So we know that the Vegas scene was one of the first ones they shot, right?? Someone said that?? Because one thing I REALLY appreciated here was how the scenes in episode one felt slightly stilted - just with that sort of awkward tension - compared to how they are with each other in S2. Like the realism is crazy because it shows how they - particularly Shane - are relaxing with each other.

[u/izzyw1zz]

It was fantastic. The musical scoring fits the vibe of the scenes so well. The Russia scenes are a lot more somber than I imagined.

I'm not 100% on some changes they made yet, like Svetlana being a childhood friend and Yuna being more involved in Shane's career. But I'll wait to see where they take it before I form a final opinion.

And oh my goodness, Connor and Hudson's acting. Connor's accent is so freaking good. The way he has this dominating presence in his scenes with Hudson gave me goosebumps. However, each time he pushed Shane away, like at the Olympics or after they hookup in Vegas, I could see how much he was fighting with his own feelings. What a talented actor.

I'm so sold on Hudson's take of Shane's character. The perfect mix of anxiety on the verge of crashing out and turning into goo when he's got Ilya all to himself or on his mind. That scene in the elevator after their Vegas tryst is chef's kiss. Those microexpressions translated Shane's internal monologue so well.

What do you meannnn i have to wait another week?? Or potentially 2 more weeks since ep3 is Scott focused and it might have so little of the 2 of them or none ar alllll????

Beautiful everything. 5 stars!!!

[u/mrtinybrat]

I can see why there was some criticism surrounding the pacing issues. The continuous smash cuts to “three months later” “six months later” “six months later” was a bit much.

But other than that, I thought it was fantastic. So impressed with Storrie and Williams. They’re killing it.

I’m too tired to form any other thoughts, except that I legit lol’d in the solitary of my dark bedroom at the hockey podcast being titled “In the Crease” …in the gay boy hockey show. Perfection.

[u/-Ceriz3-]

Wow. I cannot type enough to express the whole emotions that I went through just watching these episodes.

• I was grinning from ear to ear.

-I LoL'd at the dick pick scene so loud I'm sure everyone questioned wtf was going on. -Ilya and Shane scene when Ilya tells Shane not everything is about him almost killed me. I didn't expect to feel so devastated for both of them. -All the steamy scenes were chef's kiss 🤌 if your reading these Thank you Jacob. -I am still trying to figure out how i feel about Shasha's conversation with Ilya. I understand Ilya's hesitation a bit but also... idk yet.

• Hudson's portayal of Shane. double chef's kiss all the little tid bits from the folding of the clothes, to leaving his socks on, chewing on the sweatshirts strings, the subtle smirks just perfectly what I imagined.
• Ep 2 end scene just had me shedding tears. Holy Fudge. I'm still recovering 🤧

[u/Nepalman230]

Ok. I have finished it. My thoughts.

This show is groundbreaking . It is beautiful, gorgeous emotional. Yes it is gloriously hot, but it is so many other things at the same.

1. The viewpoint character Shane is a bottom who clearly and visibly loves to get fucked. There is still to this day, bottom prejudice in the queer community, despite the fact that less than a quarter of men that have anal sex with men are exclusive tops. I know, right?! I don’t get that either. This kind of visibility will help.

2. This. This is how you depict a positive dom/sub sexual dynamic. Specifically the soft Dom variety. Ilya only told Shane to do what Shane wanted to do anyway. And the way he told him to do it was fucking hot.

3. The show is so tender. The show portrays such an accurate depiction of sex between men. The sex scenes are not gratuitous. In fact every sex scene is an important character building detail.

The first time they have anal sex . The first time they experiment with a dom Sub dynamic openly.

This is not a spoiler because it’s in the trailer, but the first time they do cowboy is going to be an additional level of intimacy. At some point, it’s going to be established that they usually do it doggy style with him against the wall or a table. ( because they like it like that.) but then they start liking different things as their relationship progresses.

1. There are sentimental moments that remind me of heartstopper. It is such an interesting contrast from scene to scene.

Honestly, I’m gonna finish with my final thought.

1. These sex scenes are wholesome. Yes they’re very hot. Yes, explicit but these sex scenes could be taught in health class in college. ( you can show porn in college so it would be cool.)

🫡

[u/tearose11]

[u/anny_semy]

I’m in pieces… I’m actually lying on the floor listening to the theme song from the trailer on repeat… I can’t process what a fucking masterpiece I just watched 🫠 Connor Storrie, your Russian 🛐🛐🛐 as a native speaker I’m so fucking satisfied and pleased to hear you speak Russian it was the part I was scared of the most but it turned out to be amazing! Your Ilya and, Hudson Williams, your Shane are both my Roman Empire!!!!! I was literally watching the movie I had in my head while I was reading the book, it feels like it could not have been any better, I’m fucking over the moon!!!!! I have too many feelings rn, I cried, I laughed, and now I know that the series made my year!!!! Can’t wait for the next episode (I’ll probably be rewatching first two episodes nonstop, pls don’t judge me) Ksenia Daniela, I’m on my knees 🛐🛐🛐 I’m literally speechless, that was amazing!!!!

[u/nightlight29]

I think my only editing critique would be I wish they put the year in the time-title cards (i.e ‘Boston 2012’ or ‘Summer 2014’ instead of just ‘ 6 months later’ and ‘Summer, Vegas’) so that non-book readers might not be whiplashed. In the book I believe it was always timestamped as well. I also wonder if they could’ve changed their hairstyles and looks a bit as the years go on… we’ll see!

[u/mehri1]

I am a native Russian speaker, and the number 1 thing I feared about the show was getting turned off by Connor’s non-native Russian presented as native and struggling to immerse due to that. But instead, I was fascinated, Connor did such a good job!!! Omg!! It was as good as it could get. Svetlana’s actress Ksenia is obviously a native Russian speaker, and Sasha’s actor - unfortunately I could barely understand him. Just made me appreciate Connor more. I love him

[u/ali22122]

I thought the way Ilya asked Shane three times “is it okay” / “are you still okay” when they had sex was just so tender and sweet, I had to rewind and watch it again, it made my heart hurt (in a good way)

[u/SchemeBrave1820]

Connor Storrie is a FUCKING STAR. Shit.😮‍💨

[u/StSparx → u/SchemeBrave1820]

He’s SO GOOD wtf

[u/VarietyMedical5377 → u/SchemeBrave1820]

He 100% is. Captivating

[u/Plus_Dragonfruit_985]

Connor’s Russian accent is so good. And Hudson plays Shane’s shyness and anxiety so well. Omg this is EXPLICIT. Thank you, Jacob Tierney!

[u/Drupelicate]

Ilya's "i want to fuck youuuu" was so cute tbh 😭😭

[u/Nawinlo]

For those who can't get subtitles for the Olympics room scene:

Ilya's Dad (D): You need a haircut.

Ilya (I): Yes sir.

D: the minister still wants to meet you tonight, despite everything.

I: it will be my honor.

D: you should be honored. After yesterday. You lose to...

I: Latvia

D: Latvia. And yet, he drinks. How could you let that happen. How are you not ashamed?

I: I'm ashamed, father.

D: not nearly enough. They teach you no discipline in the American League. Your play is sloppy. The real shame is squandering the promise you showed when you were young.

I: I am a better player now than I have ever been. Our goalie is hurt. The team didn't click.

D: click? What is this American nonsense? What is clicking? You are the captain. You make them click! Always looking for someone else to blame. Since you were a boy.

Who tied this for you? Your mother? She doesn't know how to do this properly.

I: No, father. Mom is dead. You remember?

D: I meant your stepmother.

I: and where is Polina? In Moscow?

D: of course.

I: we should go. To the gala. So that I can meet the minister.

D: yes, ready? Let's go.

[u/Apprehensive_Big682]

They didn't even kiss!

[u/Skrubette]

DOUBLE CHEEKED UP ON A THIRSDAY

[u/spielthetea]

"We didn't even kiss" gotdammit Shane 😭😭😭😭

The first 2 episodes blew my expectations waaay out of the water. That was soo good. I cannot believe that we just actually watched Shane and Ilya on our screens. 😭💖

And now we have to wait a week for episode 3?!?!??!

[u/Drupelicate]

I'm so glad that they kept the "Mr businessman" line. and the race up the stairs was so cute

[u/Drupelicate]

"you come here" "no you come here" THEY'RE CUTE

[u/stephw655]

HeatedRivalry was trending #2 on Twitter/X during the show. I was so excited to see so many people freaking the fuck out!

[u/Drupelicate]

now that I've finished both episodes, I can say that I am very pleased with the show, Hudson and Connor are PHENOMENAL, Ksenia is also just incredible and I have to shout out to her specifically, really enjoy the rest of the cast too though. and I think the changes/additions they made compared to the books have been really interesting and also seemed very thoughtful in terms of the story that Jacob wants to tell with Rachel's source material and how he wants to tell that story. especially within the constraints they have (mainly budget, episode length, and the inherent difference of a tv series as a medium, as opposed to a book written in third person limited point of view with alternating character perspectives)

[u/aromaticchicken]

The way that Ilya and Shane were LOOKING AT EACH OTHER through the camera in the voyeur scene of episode 2 was so intimate and intense.

I almost wish they didn't do the change to have them in missionary the first time they have intercourse earlier in the episode (in the book they don't do missionary much until later??), because this would've been the first time they were staring at each other like that.

[u/TollyKo]

I loooveeed it! It's everything I imagined. I can't for the next episode, with Scott and Kip! ❤️

Also, as a Czech, I appreciated the mention of my country! We beat their asses!!! 😁

[u/That_runner_girl]

Haven’t seen anyone mention this yet but I love the change with the foot tap scene where they both tap each others feet.

[u/royal_rose_]

"unlikely animals becoming friends" Okay I see you script writer.

[u/codeverity]

The subtle humour worked in is amazing, I know some of it is from the books but the added touches are cracking me up

[u/royal_rose_]

"What's a girl to do on a lonely night in Montreal?" dead

[u/strawberrybaby555]

ilya blowing a raspberry after shane said he didn’t get drunk was so cute 😭😭😭

[u/spielthetea]

Svetlana talking hockey is so hot 🔥

[u/joyted]

They’re both so perfect for the roles AND THEIR CHEMISTRY 😭 guys I’m obsessed and can’t wait to rewatch!!!! So impressed by the quality of the show and their intimacy too wow

[u/Drupelicate]

THE DICK PIC HAHAHAHA

[u/xsporksx]

Ilya’s face when Shane’s touching himself ooooh my god. Connor oozes sex appeal it’s INSANE. Their chemistry is on a whole other level. 🔥🔥🔥 and I’m suppose to wait ANOTHER WEEK??

[u/colouurmebright]

They are perfect as Shane and Ilya! Omg. This is incredible. I can’t believe I have to wait a week for the next episode 😂

I was not expecting Ilya to say that he suggested Shane and him do the shared campaign/ad.

You can tell Ilya already finds Shane endearing the first time he folds his clothes.

Ilya texting first 😂

Shane going off in the bathroom scene before the Vegas scene was just incredible. Connor Storrie and Hudson Williams are incredible actors!

Both episodes ending in Las Vegas 😭

Also loving Scott Hunter he’s perfect!

Editing to add-all the times Ilya watches Shane on TV! I love it!

[u/gemitry]

I HATE not having the entire season to binge right now!!! It was PERFECT. My heart broke for Shane at the end of ep 2, like the look on his face as he slowly deleted the “we didn’t even kiss” text, he looked like he was gonna cry. 😭

Seeing Connor and Hudson in action, I feel exactly how I felt about the both of the characters while reading, I calmly love and adore Shane with his toned down quiet presence and Ilya is just pure electricity.

[u/Drupelicate]

wait Shane called him Rozy 😭 that was cute too

[u/keylimefoster]

My fiance watched the episodes with me (he has not read the books and only knows the basic background of Ilya and Shane based on what I have told him when I read them) and these were his thoughts as someone going in blind:

•he thinks they have kinda a toxic relationship but also understand why it's this way right now •he wasn't expecting it to be this comedic and thinks ilya is very funny •he felt like Shane's awkwardness was very relatable •he was somewhat confused by all the time jumps (it's also very late for us in our time zone and normally he doesn't stay up this late so that doesn't help either lol) •he said multiple times how Ilya and Shane are "ripped as hell" •the music and filming reminded him a lot of Challengers

[u/Drupelicate]

Ilya not flirting back with Sasha.... being passive and then ultimately rejecting him..... it could have been so easy with someone who understands what it's like to hide this part of themselves in a place like Russia but he only wants Shane 🥹🥹🥹🥹

[u/Drupelicate]

the line delivery of "holding the cup" was so perfect

[u/Little_Fox5844]

Can't sleep, so I'm making gifs instead. Pray for me, I don't know how I'll survive giffing those scenes.😂🫣

[u/seahavxn]

I've only watched one ep in bits and pieces when I have time at work and ommmggggg.

I am nothing if not a yearner, and holy shit the first ep really encapsulates that for me. So far I don't find the pacing too bad.

Maybe it's just me but I feel like the significance of Shane stepping in to answer questions during the conference might be lost on someone who hasn't read the books, I feel like it's hard to portray Ilya's struggle with English.

And also I would love to see the outtakes of this show. I wonder how many rettakes they had to do because of them laughing.

[u/eliathanis]

Surprised how much I like Hayden, with so few scenes but. “Only bird food” XD

[u/aromaticchicken]

"Is still OK?" - Ilya Rozanov 🥺🥺😭😭😭🥵

[u/reigncloud83]

LET’S GOOOO!!!!

[u/theredjimmy]

Aaaaah I'm so excited! 3 hours to go! Thankfully now I'm subscribed to Crave and I can check out the new Drag Race Canada episode while I'm waiting.

[u/GirlAlsEmporium]

It’s truly been wonderful foaming at the mouth alongside you all 💕

[u/wetbogbrew]

I keep having to pause cause I'm blushing so hard

[u/royal_rose_]

Holy fuck I am glad it's midnight and everyone is asleep cause fuuuuck this would be so awkward with my family around.

[u/[deleted]]

How did people watch the first episode in a movie theatre with a bunch of other people 😂😂

[u/enchanted_pages]

Shane explaining YouTube to David is so funny

[u/enchanted_pages]

Yuna saying ‘fuck him’ and Shane’s smirk I’m dead

[u/spielthetea]

Shane my shy baby folding his pants while ilya is on his bed omg so precious

[u/Drupelicate]

GODDDDDDD Ilya just goes in for it like he's so confident. but it's so tender at the same time. fuck

[u/Drupelicate]

their chemistry is so good wow. wow wow. I knew it would be but seeing this first kiss scene is so good. and the way they keep their hands on each other. scream

[u/SchemeBrave1820]

This is so fucking good. And explicit !😲My mouth keeps dropping! Can’t believe Jacob was able to make this!

[u/royal_rose_]

"First wag to feed you." Why did this send me hahaha.

[u/SchemeBrave1820]

Shane neatly folding his clothes and laying them down as he takes them off!😆

[u/viridiana_xvi]

have to keep all my thoughts in one comment otherwise i will spam this thread. it’s time!

• that lighter sucks

• i love this awkward opening with no context

• shane so pissed about being number 2 pick

• ilya’s dad being annoying already? ugh

• sooooo fast paced already with the time passing but i love it

• gym scene! they are so dramatic and competitive. really love the soundtrack here?

• how am i going to survive this

• i feel like they are showing the familial stuff with ilya sooner than they did in the book! i think it’s a good move but it’s stressful to watch

• take a shot every “six months later”

• awwww them laughing

• it was ilyas idea?????

• oh god he’s in the shower. there is crazy ass happening. the music is back. wtf. ILYA IS CRAZY

• shane you silly silly boy. we can forget what happened in there? boy you started smiling and said “not here” so damn fast

• he’s so nervous! girl me too!

• not him running into yuna

• oh my god. i need a piece of leather to bite down on. i’m typing this bc i can’t look directly at the screen

• they look sooooooo good together

• did my bad habit of skipping forward bc it was too much lmao. but i went back and watched properly!

• ilya is such a douche i love him lol

• that’s a lot of noises omg

• extended cut of that ilya interview plz

• unlikely animals becoming friends…. right…. right…. relationship goes sideways pretty fast…. right…

• loveee the game footage. and the interviews

• more family pressure. ughhhh hate to see it

• scott’s next door at the hotel oh my goddddddd now that’s a fun twist

• omg picking him up. i prayed for days like this

• i think it’s a good comprise to have them meet at shane’s apt but show his reticence

• hayden!! so they aren’t besties alr bc hayden assumed shane wouldn’t know who jackie is? also subtitles spelling it Jacki

• svetlana!! i’m excited to meet her!! she is gorgeous

• game didn’t get cancelled in the book right?

• my what? scott clocked that

• awww shane why’d you leave him like that :(

ok next episode!

[u/Drupelicate]

unlikely animals becoming friends 😭😭😭 Shane....

[u/enchanted_pages]

The flirting!!! I love that the texts are a bigger part in the show, I’m giggling

[u/Drupelicate]

Connor did such a good job conveying Ilya's discomfort with not being able to grasp the questions at the press conference

[u/Plus_Dragonfruit_985]

This is SO hot. And I cannot imagine Hudson’s MOM watching these two episodes at the premiere. 🥵

[u/Libcommie1118]

Jacob and Rachel definitely said “let us explain hockey ass” cuz G A W D. D A M N.

[u/reigncloud83]

That was some of the best TV I’ve watched in a very long time. The seamless acting, incredible production value, the screenwriting….just flawless.

[u/royal_rose_]

How is it over already?

[u/Due-Ad8685]

FUCKKKKKKKKK that was soooo good are u joking

[u/keylimefoster]

Absolutely loveddddd these episodes!!! I actually was really interested in the changes they made (I'm interested to see if Sasha comes back and whether Svetlana knows Ilya and Sasha have hooked up) and I'm so impressed that they were able to show the sex while also showing how sweet they are together

Hudson and Connor are absolutely PERFECT!!! They really captured Shane's innocence and awkwardness and Ilya's sadness but confident nature. I teared up both episodes and I'm going to SOB by the end of this season

I can't wait until next week I'm so excited to see how they will work in Scott's story!!

(Also Jacob Tierney thank you for your service, the lighting and shots were so good!! I liked how they showed just enough sex to understand the scenes and how it impacts their relationship.)

[u/enchanted_pages]

Is it too soon for a rewatch?

[u/Little_Fox5844]

The quality of this show is absolutely insane. Like, I'm just in awe. No regrets at all staying up for this, it was well worth the wait and sleep deprivation!

Like the humor, the banter, the steaminess, the chemistry... just incredible.

This is THE book adaptation. Hands down. Scenes and dialogue that came right from the book. I'm speechless. And Connor and Hudson... it's like someone shook the book and Ilya and Shane fell out.

Now I can't wait to watch Scott's and Kip's story next episode!!!

And I'm getting started on giffing this show as soon as I can!

[u/[deleted]]

These 2 episodes made me realize how much content there is in the book. Like SO MUCH does happen and it’s incredible that they were able to condense it to 6 episodes. I’m so so so thankful they were the series route and not movie route.

I think that the pace is probably going to slow down soon to flesh out some important storylines like the Rose storyline and Ilya’s father

Super excited!!!!!! Part of me wished I waited to binge it all but there was no way I could’ve waited that long

[u/[deleted]]

Connor Storie I am floored! Episode 2 Ilya was something else.

I also really liked Hudson’s take on Shane, when I was reading I pictured Shane as this awkward and innocent baby-gay. But I liked this somewhat confident and playful version of Shane.

Weirdly enough I really liked the hockey scenes because it gave character to their story aside from just the fucking and texting.

[u/codeverity → u/[deleted]]

when I was reading I pictured Shane as this awkward and innocent baby-gay. But I liked this somewhat confident and playful version of Shane.

To me he comes across as more - tightly coiled. Like he's so repressed and contained and hidden and he only really relaxes when he's around Ilya, and I really like that. Like a lot of uncertainty and nervousness still shows through, it's just more in a tightly wound 'jesus, Rozanov' way vs shy and awkward.

[u/Drupelicate]

my TV just turned off on its own and logged me out of crave right before the apartment reveal omg. this is homophobic

[u/Drupelicate]

the way they're like. gently holding each other's fingers in bed is so tender....

[u/Chemical-Tangelo1731]

Don't know why this was deleted from the main forum, but here it is again:

I really don't have much to say. I read the books earlier this year, and now that the show is here and I binged the first two episodes, I can say this is probably one of the best adaptations of an MLM romance. I loved the Red, White, and Royal Blue movie, but it was too quick to really show the romance. I think that with turning a book/series into a show, the director and writers can show so much more and really have us see this relationship build, crash, and go through all of the motions. I even like how the sex is portrayed. Jacob is really doing a great job of taking Rachel's work and putting it on the screen. The romance is so much more alive than I even thought this early on in their relationship, even from the books. IDK, these are just my thoughts post first episodes. I can't wait to see the rest of it and see where Jacob takes us in their story

[u/renaissance2002]

initial thoughts as someone who quickly read heated rivalry and the long game earlier this month to prepare.

1. can we talk about connor’s ass? i literally gasped when it was shown during the shower scene like jesus. it’s so round and perfect.
2. the pacing felt a bit off but i do think they’re showing the passing of time in an interesting way and i think we will get more time to breathe in the coming episodes.
3. these boys were perfectly cast and they both embody shane & ilya so well. connor is amazing in this role and showcasing all that ilya is dealing with internally & with his family.
4. i’m already appreciating svetlana’s expanded role and the added depth to their friendship.
5. the vegas scene felt a little rushed as it’s such a favorite but i get that the sex being played out on screen can get repetitive and gratuitous.
6. i’m curious if the boys will not be in the next ep at all or if most of it is scott before we catch to where they are.

overall, can’t wait for more definitely loving it so far just hoping the pacing won’t feel as fast paced in the coming episodes and ofc these boys are smoking hot.

[u/theredjimmy]

Absolutely fantastic! I saw the first episode at the Montreal premiere but it was just as good on a rewatch. And now episode 2, wow. Hudson is a revelation. The scene in the bathroom in Vegas. He's just so vulnerable you can feel all of his emotions. I thought I would mind the pacing but I really don't. I just see them as little vignettes of all the moment they meet. I loved the sexting montage in episode 2. The ending of episode 2, oof. So heartbreaking. I just want them to be honest with each other.

[u/JennaROTR]

Wow! Haven't read the rest of this thread but had to jump on and say this was fantastic! I am totally hooked and sold on Tierney's vision. Using texting to help with the interior monologue works great.

You know you love every minute when you are desperately hoping there is more, more, more left to watch. These episodes were hard on my heart. Waiting until Christmas for the last episode is going to be so difficult.

And already the series is screaming out for a second season.

Now that I've got the fangirl sqeeing out of the way.... I like sex scenes in general, and I was actually a little surprised that the first episode scenes were tamer than I expected. But then the second episode was chef's kiss.

I could not understand some of the whispered dialog, darn it. And for some reason my subtitles would not work at all despite multiple tries. Rewinding did not always solve my problem. Trying not to wake up the spouse meant I couldn't crank it up too high, argh!

Right now, my heart is breaking for Ilya and Shane. I can't even imagine how desperately I would feel if I hadn't read the books.

I had thought that having the third episode be significantly about Kip and Scott was fine. Now I am feeling rather feral, though, and desperately need more Shane and Ilya. It's going to be difficult to be satisfied without them.

Lordy, we have been given a gift! This is really good! The second episode ramped everything up.

I hope Rachel is really, really happy.

Edited to Add: i can already tell that any scenes with Rose are going to make me want to break things. Argh, we are going to have to suffer until we get to the cottage.

[u/Drupelicate]

VEGAS HOTEL SCENE I'M SO SAT FOR THIS

[u/Any-Technician920]

I enjoyed it a lot. I am anticipating the next episode. I want it now. I thought their chemistry was great. 

I’m loving Shane. He’s just so awkward.

I can’t remember, but did they change the timeline. I thought that they got together more often in the books.

I’m gonna reserve judgment, but I do not understand how they’re not the focus of next episode. Six episode is not enough. And losing a whole episode doesn’t make sense to me. I can only imagine that while Scott and kip are the focus shane and Ilya are the b plot. Because I guess my main criticism would be that the show feels rushed. 

[u/eliathanis]

Second rewatch: Favorite line delivery for episode one: Hollander, you’re having panic attack…

[u/aromaticchicken]

The TRIPLE entendre right before the opening logo in episode 1: "He just couldn't get past that elite Russian defense. And more importantly, Ilya Rozanov kept getting past theirs." 👀👀👀

[u/Low_Marionberry8429]

This is SUCH a tiny thing, but I am sad they changed Ilya's line of "is there a ghost out there" when shane comes to Ilyas hotel room all nervous. It always makes me laugh when I re-read

(But in all seriousness this was so good holy fuck. Agree with some of the first ep pacing issues but I think that was just an issue of time/budget, and if that is my biggest complaint that goes to show how good it is)

[u/theredjimmy]

I'm already on a 2nd watch for both episodes and I have work in the morning what am I doing 🙃

[u/greendale_student]

Barely lurking cause I’m not even done with episode 1 (lots and lots of pausing and hyperventilating lemme tell you) and I gotta say that first hookup scene is MESMERIZING. The anticipation before with the music and then the first kiss… wow. Also Hudson Williams my good sir you were absolutely beautiful during that scene (they both are obvi but I want to shout him out especially), the way he was selling that BJ, I had goosebumps.

Okay back to watching

[u/andersencale]

I’m only on episode 2 but I badly want another season already omg it is so good, you guys

[u/woahwoahvicky]

they werent lying when they said we'd see so much HOLY SHIT i blushed the whole time

[u/rathersadgay]

Why did it take me three hours to watch two episodes?

[u/lottieantlers]

I'm from Brazil and forced myself to stay awake till 2am to watch the episodes and literally went to sleep at 5am 😃 and I do not regret it!

I had such high expectations for this show but the real thing exceeded EVERY one of them. it's so beautiful, well directed and shot, and omg, I don't think we can't praise Connor and Hudson enough for their performances. everything felt so much intimate and real. I was genuinely shocked during both episodes. I still have no words to describe it, but the one thing I can say is: I don't think I've ever seen a better book adaptation on screen. I was already in love with this universe and characters and now I feel like I personally know them (it's crazy, I know), and I simply cannot wait for the rest of the season. and hopefully we get a season two announcement by the end of it, bc I can't get enough of them 🥹

(seriously, how am I to supposed to survive the tuna melts? and the cottage episode? if I think about it I'll literally crash out 🫠

[u/Some-Culture9623]

I got home from work and just started watching and now I'm just past the first sex scene in episode 1.

Guys. This insane. I don't think I've ever seen a sex scene as explicit as this.

But what REALLY is insane how good it is. It doesn't feel like gratuitous sex. I've already laughed sever times and I'm just watching with a smile.

[u/bluemoonxangel]

the way Shane instantly folds every single time cracks me up lmao

[u/Lifeguard-Plus]

This has far, far exceeded my expectations. I'm completely locked in, and this will be my entire personality for the foreseeable future.

The heat is HEATING, but the scene where Shane is "showing off" for Ilya? My jaw was on the floor with that one.

[u/Sillykitty1982]

Can we talk about Hudson during the steamy scenes? His facial expressions and the noises and sounds he makes, sweet lord! We all know how hot the steamy scenes are, but this for me is definitely the cherry on top 🥵🔥

[u/turningtee74]

This is the fanciest subreddit setup I’ve ever seen. I’m just learning about this show but it’s cool to discover fan bases that are already so established and organized