Heated Rivalry 1x1 | Watch Along

OMG, I'm glad I can watch it here! I was REALLY enjoying it on YT and in the middle of it the video was gone 😱.

I'm so glad this first episode was free as your version of the show plays faster than what is shown on HBO. I'm not going to bother watching the rest as it's infuriating to constantly be out of sync with you.

My copy couldn't keep up with yours I think your episode might've been slightly sped up. Will the reactions be up on youtube any time soon?

It’s very telling to see people (rightfully) give grace to Ilya for his complicated family situation but lack all empathy when it comes to Shane, a gay Asian man in one of the most homophobic white-dominated sports.

I'm autistic and I realized this around episode 4 I think -- it made me so so happy. I went back and watched it all over again 🙃

Thought I'd share that Shane's character is autistic! This is never explicitly stated in the book or show, but it is important to understanding his character. The author Rachel Reid, the director and creator of the show Jacob Tierney, and Shane's actor Hudson Williams have all confirmed that that was an intentional character choice for the character. The only reason it's unacknowledged within the story itself is because Shane is undiagnosed. Hudson took a lot of inspiration for his performance from his own autistic father. Going forward you might notice some of these traits in Shane like the flat affect on his voice, the way he struggles to make eye contact sometimes, the way he struggles with processing his emotions, sometimes not reading the room or responding too literally, his attachment to routine and rules (like how he folds his clothes), etc.

Also it’s good to remember that it is currently illegal to be gay or affiliated with anything LGBTQ+ in Russia. Which is why Ilya and the coaches son was a big secret they both needed to keep.

is this gonna be once a week or quicker than that?

Shanes autistic according to the author, so he may not always pick up cues or know how to read the room. Ilya is also not a great communicator so that through out the series affects their relationship heavy.

I believe the Show takes place in 2008 so that's why Shane is so paranoid about people finding out. I can see being gay would be a reason to be dropped back then by brands.

I think your playback is a little too fast. I keep falling out of synch with you guys.

I expected a little bit more rivalry building before we got into the sex. Holy shit that was so much so fast.

It's happening!!!

Dang, this and community are skips for me. Oh well hope you all enjoy it

Oh my God, it’s like you guys are mine readers and knew that I was going to need this after a long day of absolute bullshit at work. Can’t wait to watch tonight!

My wife absolutely LOVES this show (has watched it like 3 times). not really my thing, but she will definitely be watching this reaction along with you both!!!

Been meaning to watch it so i am excited to join you guys!