NHL Launches 'Hot for Hockey' Romance Audiobook Campaign
The NHL released romance novel-inspired short stories about players on audiobook platforms, sparking criticism from authors and fans.
The NHL has launched a new campaign called 'Hot for Hockey,' releasing romance novel-inspired short stories about league players on audiobook platforms. The first batch of 60 to 90 second stories dropped this week and features Trevor Zegras, Sebastian Aho, and Jack Eichel.
The stories were written by author C.R. Jane and will be promoted by BookTok creators. The campaign aims to tap into the growing popularity of hockey romance.
Some romance authors and fans criticized the campaign, citing concerns about sexual harassment of players and the league's handling of homophobia and toxic masculinity. The criticism highlights tensions between marketing romance and addressing real issues in the sport.
In 2019, the New York Public Library first highlighted the rise of hockey romance novels. Hockey romance burst into the mainstream with the success of the romance novel-turned-streaming series Heated Rivalry, followed by Off Campus.
Earlier this year, NHL commissioner Gary Bettman told reporters that 'every team does a Pride Night.' The league's new campaign arrives amid ongoing discussions about inclusivity and player safety.
Quick answers
What is the NHL's 'Hot for Hockey' campaign?
It is a campaign featuring romance novel-inspired short stories about NHL players, released on audiobook platforms. The first batch of 60 to 90 second stories dropped this week.
Which players are featured in the first stories?
Trevor Zegras, Sebastian Aho, and Jack Eichel are featured in the first batch of stories.
Why are some people criticizing the campaign?
Some romance authors and fans criticized the campaign, citing concerns about sexual harassment of players and the league's handling of homophobia and toxic masculinity.