It is nearly impossible to open social media without seeing something about Heated Rivalry. From viral posts to nonstop commentary about the hottest moments, the hockey-driven HBO drama has taken over timelines everywhere. The series had quickly become one of television’s most talked-about breakout hits — and among its compelling ensemble is Ksenia Daniele Kharlamova, one of the show’s female protagonists whose performance has resonated strongly with fans.
And I’ve happily been part of the frenzy. I showed up for Club 90s: Heated Rivalry Night at Webster Hall, danced the night away at Cottage Chemistry: A Heated Rivalry Dance Party at City Winery, and even met Connor Storrie during his appearance on the Today Show. Needless to say, I’m a fan — fully invested in the drama both on and off the ice. So when I heard Kharlamova would be making a special in-store appearance at Times Square’s tech destination TM:RW, there was no way I was missing it.
This was my first time stepping inside the TM:RW store — and honestly, what better occasion to check it out than with one of television’s buzziest stars. The afternoon quickly turned into a full-scale fan celebration, complete with live meet-and-greets, professional photo ops and immersive in-store experiences. TM:RW is more than a store — it’s a destination where innovation and imagination meet. From design and technology to well-being and creativity, the space embodies a vision of the future brought to life.
Fresh off her whirlwind Fashion Week schedule — which included attending multiple runway shows and even making her catwalk debut — Kharlamova drew a massive crowd in the heart of Times Square. Fans lined up for the chance to meet her, snap a photo, and share a moment with one of the faces behind Heated Rivalry’s unstoppable rise. It was so fun to see Ksenia in her element — warm, sweet, and genuinely engaged with the fans. Connor and Hudson have been meeting with their fans all over NYC these past few months, but it was exciting to watch her first moment of shine in the Big Apple.