A surge is happening in queer sports stories, a vibrant wave crashing against decades of exclusion. It’s a moment of visibility, of reclaiming spaces historically denied, and it’s gaining unstoppable momentum.
Consider the raw power ofLove Lies Bleeding, Kristen Stewart’s intense crime drama set within the world of bodybuilding. Or the unapologetic energy ofBackspot, a cheerleading film that deserves far wider recognition. Even mainstream hits likeChallengershint at the simmering tensions and hidden desires within the seemingly pristine world of tennis.
This isn’t just about representation; it’s about a hunger for stories that are both thrilling and deeply relatable. The phenomenal success ofHeated Rivalryproved that audiences crave queer narratives that are unapologetically sensual, fiercely competitive, and undeniably captivating.
And it’s not limited to drama. The sharp wit of comedies likeOvercompensatingandBottomsdemonstrates the power of laughter in exploring queer experiences. Combining the energy of sports with the freedom of comedy is a winning formula, and a new series is poised to deliver just that.
IntroducingSlo Pitch, a Canadian mockumentary that dives headfirst into the world of a lesbian softball team. This isn’t a sanitized portrayal; it’s a messy, hilarious, and heartfelt look at the challenges and triumphs of a team determined to break the losing streak.
The series originates from the same network that brought youHeated Rivalry, signaling a clear commitment to queer storytelling. While a specific release date remains a mystery, the network has promisedSlo Pitchwill arrive in 2026, offering a beacon of anticipation through the winter months.
At its heart,Slo Pitchfollows The Public Lass Brovaries, a team known for six consecutive seasons of defeat. Their coach, Joanne, is battling a recent heartbreak – a brutal breakup with her girlfriend and co-founder – as she attempts to turn the team’s fortunes around.
The season promises a chaotic blend of strikeouts, fierce rivalries, awkward sponsorships from conservative politicians, and disastrous carwash fundraisers. To complicate matters further, Joanne’s ex joins a competing team, adding a layer of personal drama to the already high-stakes competition.
The story isn’t new, however.Slo Pitchbegan as a critically acclaimed web series on LGBTQ+ streaming service OutTV, created by J Stevens, Gwenlyn Cumyn, and Karen Knox. The original series boasted an entirely female and non-binary cast and crew, with the vast majority identifying as LGBTQ+.
The web series garnered multiple award nominations, including a Best Performance nod for Kirsten Rasmussen at the Canadian Screen Awards, establishing a dedicated fanbase and proving the demand for this kind of storytelling.
Adding further weight to the project is Elliot Page’s production company, PageBoy Productions. Founded after Page publicly came out as a trans man, the company is dedicated to amplifying underrepresented voices and demonstrating the financial viability of inclusive narratives.
The cast for the Crave series is equally impressive. Fraiser star Jess Salgueiro will embody the determined coach Joanne, while Schitt’s Creek’s Emily Hampshire takes on a leading role. Knox and Cumyn, the creators of the original series, will also star alongside Emma Hunter, Chelsea Muirhead, Lane Webber, Khadijah Roberts-Abdullah, and Amanda Cordner.
Adding a unique real-world connection, Ayami Sato, the first female player to compete in professional baseball in Canada, will make a guest appearance. J Stevens will serve as an executive producer and director, ensuring the series stays true to its original spirit.
While an exact release date remains elusive, rumors suggest filming has recently wrapped. This offers a glimmer of hope that fans might not have to wait until 2026 to rejoin The Public Lass Brovaries on their quest for victory – and maybe, just maybe, a little bit of love along the way.
