Hello Out readers!
As the Heated Rivalry train keeps sweeping across North America, many fans are wondering if it's based on a true story and if there have ever been any real-life pro hockey players who have had romances like the one in the show.
While there have certainly been some queer players in the National Hockey League, it remains the last of the four major North American male sports leagues (NBA, MLB, NFL, NHL) never to have had a current or former player come out.
The NBA had its first gay player come out in 2013, when Jason Collins announced he was gay. Sadly, Collins was recently diagnosed with a brain tumor.
MLB has had a few players come out, including Billy Bean, TJ House, and the inventor of the high-five, Glenn Burke.
More NFL players have come out, including retired players like Dave Kopay, Jerry Smith, and Wade Davis, and Carl Nassib, who became the first active out gay player in 2021.
Will Heated Rivalry inspire some NHL players to come out? Only time will tell.
Keep reading to find out the queer films we're excited for at the 2026 Sundance Film Festival, our Woman Crush Wednesday, and all the best pop culture news!
- Mey Rude
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Woman Crush Wednesday
Beyoncé will be making her first Met Gala appearance in a decade as one of the chairs! This makes her our Woman Crush Wednesday! Find out what that means for her next album!
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