‘Heated Rivalry’ Episode 5’s Rose Scene Deserves More Attention

If you’ve somehow not skated your way to HBO Max and seen one of the most-talked-about shows of 2025, then take this as a strong urging to go catch up with sports drama Heated Rivalry. Now, for those who are locked in and caught up, you know that Heated Rivalry episode 5, “I’ll Believe in Anything,” is a masterpiece. It’s got everything you want from a drama, including unexpected plot twists, heartbreaking scenes, and romance on top of romance.

In particular, a lot of fans are giving metaphorical standing ovations for the developments that occurred between Shane (Hudson Williams) and Ilya (Connor Storrie), and for good reason. The hockey players finally had conversations about the very real fact that their connection extends beyond the bedroom. During a pivotal and touching scene in the episode, as Ilya was mourning the loss of his father while grappling with the fact that he no longer liked being in Russia, he called Shane for comfort. It’s during this conversation that Ilya confessed his love for Shane in Russian. Although Shane claimed not to speak Russian, some strongly suspect Shane understood perfectly.

If the Heated Rivalry audience isn’t talking about that moment, then they’re discussing the epic ending of the episode. Again, it’s understandable that it caused such a great stir, as Scott (Francois Arnaud) essentially unveiled his sexuality to the world when he pulled Kip (Robbie G.K.) into a whopper of a kiss in front of a crowded hockey arena and on national television. Not only that, but the sight persuaded Ilya to finally agree to visit Shane’s cottage, which is a huge step in their dynamic.

Rose Stole ‘Heated Rivalry’s Biggest Moment

Warner Bros./Crave

Rose Landry (Sophie Nélisse) may be a supporting character, but she delivered the biggest moment of episode 5. Yes, Ilya’s confession and Scott’s reveal were cute, but Rose’s actions deserve the most applause. After episode 4 ended with her and Shane apparently having issues in the sheets, episode 5 kicked off with the “couple” going to dinner. As they sat at the table, they exchanged some awkward banter before Rose brought up her gay bestie and the crush he has on Shane. She then perfectly segued into asking Shane if the problems they had in the bedroom were because he is gay.

The way in which she posed the question didn’t make Shane feel as if she was prying or if Shane had to be embarrassed by his truth. She came from a perspective of wanting to help a person she loves, even if not romantically, come to a place of self-acceptance. Her approach was gentle and loving, and she ultimately became the first person Shane was honest with about his sexuality. Sure, he and Ilya were getting hot and heavy since episode one, but it wasn’t until his conversation with Rose that he accepted he is gay, and that was perfectly fine. That conversation didn’t spark him to make a giant splash like Scott, but this was a huge step for Shane.

Shane and Rose concluded dinner with her vowing to be there for him in perpetuity. She reassured him that she still valued him in her life and wanted their friendship to continue. The all-star hockey player was grateful, and the duo parted ways with a hug.

It could be argued that if it weren’t for Rose, Shane would not have been honest with himself, to then be honest with Ilya about his feelings. Along those lines, Rose’s actions led to Ilya’s touching request to visit Shane at his cottage at the end of the episode. So, if you weren’t chanting Rose in celebration before, you may want to change your tune now. Hopefully, Rose will be spotted more in the highly anticipated Heated Rivalry season 2.