Nova Scotia author Rachel Reid, celebrated for her novel Heated Rivalry and its successful television adaptation, will be honored with the 2026 Changemaker Award for her contributions to Canadian entertainment and her dedication to diverse representation.

Recognizing Impactful Storytelling

Rachel Reid, the acclaimed author of the captivating romance novel Heated Rivalry, is set to receive the prestigious 2026 Changemaker Award. This honor recognizes her significant contributions as a Canadian woman making strides within the entertainment industry.

Award Ceremony Details

The award ceremony will take place on May 28th in Toronto, as part of The Hollywood Reporter's Women in Entertainment Canada gala. This event celebrates the achievements of women in various facets of Canadian media.

About Heated Rivalry

Reid’s work, particularly Heated Rivalry, has garnered widespread attention for its compelling narrative and groundbreaking representation of complex relationships. Published in 2019, Heated Rivalry is the second installment in Reid’s popular Game Changers series.

The Story's Core

The novel centers on the passionate relationship between Shane Hollander, a star player for the Montreal Voyageurs, and Ilya Rozanov, a formidable athlete representing the Boston Bears. They are fierce rivals on the ice, but a burgeoning romance develops beneath the surface.

Shane and Ilya grapple with prioritizing their dedication to hockey versus embracing their connection. The story explores themes of identity, sexuality, and the pressures faced by professional athletes, resonating with a diverse readership.

Successful Television Adaptation

The impact of Heated Rivalry extends to its recent adaptation into a highly successful television series, also titled Heated Rivalry. Directed by Montreal-based filmmaker Jacob Tierney, the series premiered on Crave in November and has become the platform’s most-watched original series.

The adaptation has broadened the reach of Reid’s story, attracting a wider audience and sparking conversations about representation and LGBTQ+ themes in mainstream media. A second season is already planned for next year.

Commitment to Inclusivity

The Women In Entertainment Canada organizers highlighted Reid’s commitment to innovation and inclusivity, stating, “By championing new perspectives, elevating underrepresented voices and pushing boundaries through storytelling, Reid has helped to shape a more dynamic and forward-looking entertainment landscape.”

This award recognizes not only past achievements but also Reid’s ongoing influence and dedication to creating meaningful content. Her work inspires aspiring writers and filmmakers, demonstrating the power of storytelling to effect positive change.