After watching Heated Rivalry, I was trying to remember what other tv shows/movies I’ve watched that have a theme of closeted professional athletes. I really like how this kind of stories explore how sexuality could affect public image, media pressure, etc.
So far I’ve seen the following shows with similar subplots:
Mario (2018 movie) — two pro soccer players fall for each other. The story is similar to HR but the ending is sad and very realistic.
Hit the Floor — My absolute favorite. NBA player secretly hooks up with his sports agent and eventually falls in love.
Power Book II: Ghost — this show is about dr*g dealers, one of the main characters dates a closeted NBA player and tries to convince him to come out. As soon as they break up, the player comes out on national tv and he realizes the problem was him and not being gay.
Ted Lasso — a soccer player navigating coming out to his teammates.
Would love recommendations for any other shows or movies with similar themes.