Heated Rivalry fans should definitely watch this 2021 Netflix drama with 100% on Rotten Tomatoes

A still from the show (Image via Apple TV)
A still from the show (Image via Apple TV)

For viewers who loved the steamy sports romance in Heated Rivalry, look out for Young Royals on Netflix. The Swedish drama series captured hearts worldwide after its 2021 release and garnered perfect scores from critics. The show follows Simon Eriksson and Prince Wilhelm as they navigate a forbidden romance at a wealthy boarding school. Their connection mirrors the romance found in the popular romance dramas like Heated Rivalry.

Both shows explore themes of private relationships and characters from separate worlds falling in love. The Swedish show conveys similar emotional nuance through its portrayal of young love as it navigates several obstacles.

Fans of sports romance will find familiar territory here, as rowing becomes crucial to the story. The series balances romance with family chaos and personal growth across three seasons. The chemistry between the main characters creates moments that feel raw and profoundly moving.


Why sports romance fans will love Young Royals

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Young Royals shares crucial elements with Heated Rivalry that make both stories engaging. The Netflix show features characters who must hide their relationship from public scrutiny. Prince Wilhelm comes from Swedish royalty, while Simon grows up in a small city with his single mother and sister Sara. Their separate backgrounds create conflicts similar to what romance viewers like.

The boarding school setting at Hillerska adds drama and action as students form teams and join clubs. Rowing becomes crucial to the plot when both Simon and Wilhelm join the team. Sports bring them closer regardless of what challenges they encounter. The themes of physical activity and teamwork mirror those found in hockey romance stories. The training scenes display the boys working hard and building trust. The competitive environment at the school pushes students to grow deeply.


The forbidden love that drives the main plot in both

Young Rivals and Heated Rivalry

The private hidden relationships from the heart of both Young Royals and Heated Rivalry. Simona and Wilhelm must keep their romance a secret because of royal expectations and media attention. The pictures from a school event go online and create trouble for the couple. The Royal Family worries about public perception, while Simon struggles to keep their love a secret.

This chaos tests their bond throughout the show. The series handles these struggles with emotion and care. Audiences see both perspectives as the couple works through their differences. Their communication remains compelling even when outside pressure grows. Wilhelm faces pressure to maintain his royal image and adhere to protocol. Simon wants transparency and openness in their relationship. These opposing wishes create genuine conflicts that drive the plot forward. The show never takes the simpler path and lets the leads struggle with problematic choices.


Family bonds and friendship matter in Young Royals, like in Heated Rivalry

Young Royals explores connections beyond romance, just like strong fiction does. Wilhelm's cousin August influenced his decision at school and later caused chaos. His actions have a substantial impact on the leading couple as the show progresses. Simon's sister Sara attends Hillerska too and has her own narratives that intersect with the main storyline. The series displays how family shapes who people become and the choices they make.

Siblings and parents play a crucial role in character growth throughout all three seasons. Friendship also plays a pivotal role through Felice Ehrencrona.

She talks with both Simon and Wilhelm about their relationships and lives on separate occasions. These conversations on the Hillerska law deliver comfort during troubled times. The show displays that strong friendships support romantic connections and help people through struggles. Felice becomes a reliable confidant who comprehends the complications both boys encounter. Supporting characters add nuance and richness to the story, extending beyond the romance angle.


Why Young Royals earned critical acclaim like Heated Rivalry

Young Royals received critical acclaim for its genuine portrayal of amateur relationships and identity. Critics appreciated the particular writing that dodged typical teen drama tropes—the acting from the young cast earned recognition for their maturity and emotional depth. Cinematography and direction create compelling moments that stay with audiences long after the credits roll. The series treats its viewers with respect and never talks down to a younger audience.

Heated Rivalry lovers will find Young Royals deliver similar nuance and emotional chaos through engaging Swedish storytelling and memorable characters.

Edited by Tanisha Aggarwal