#fandom toxicity | Explore Tumblr posts and blogs

rowinablx · 16 days ago

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How Supercorp and shipping at large, damaged the Arrowverse fandom

This isn't meant to be an attack on any actor or ship in any form from Supergirl, just an analysis of shipping culture and toxic fandom

In the sprawling metropolis of National City, Supergirl soared through the skies, an emblem of hope and justice for all. Yet, beyond the bright lights and soaring capes, a darker narrative began to unfold in the digital realm. The Supercorp fandom, a fervent subset of the Supergirl fanbase, coalesced around the romantic pairing of Kara Danvers and Lena Luthor, two of the show's central characters. Initially a celebration of friendship and the potential for love, the movement grew a sinister underbelly as some of its most vocal members turned toxic. Their insatiable thirst for validation and the desire to impose their narrative onto the show's trajectory began to cast a shadow over the very essence of the show they claimed to cherish. The once harmonious fan community transformed into a battleground where dissent was met with vitriol, and the creators of the show bore the brunt of the harassment.

The Supercorp shippers grew increasingly aggressive as the show progressed without affirming their desired relationship. They bombarded social media with demands for "their" couple to become the central romance, often targeting the show's cast and crew. The intensity of their campaigns grew from hopeful fan art and thoughtfully crafted analyses to vicious personal attacks on those who disagreed with their perspective. The actors, who had once engaged with fans with grace and enthusiasm, began to withdraw from social media, citing the overwhelming negativity. The writers, caught in a crossfire of expectations and creative vision, were vilified for their narrative choices, regardless of the complexity and depth they sought to imbue into their characters. The atmosphere grew so toxic that any deviation from the Supercorp narrative was met with accusations of queerbaiting and betrayal, silencing any nuanced discussion about the show's themes of friendship, redemption, and identity.

When Tyler Hoechlin's Superman, a symbol of truth and moral fortitude, appeared to give his blessing to the burgeoning romance between Kara and Mon-El, the fury of the Supercorp shippers was unleashed like a torrent. They saw it as an affront to their own version of the story, a storyline they had grown so invested in that it had begun to overshadow the very essence of the show. The character they had once revered as a paragon of virtue was now vilified, his every action dissected for signs of "anti-Supercorp" sentiment. Hoechlin, known for his portrayal of the stoic and noble Man of Steel, found himself at the center of a maelstrom, his personal life and professional credibility questioned by a fanbase that had grown to resent his very presence on the show. The backlash was swift and unforgiving, with some going so far as to claim that his portrayal was intentionally sabotaged to diminish the Supercorp narrative.

Melissa Benoist, who brought Kara Danvers to life with a blend of earnestness and charm, faced a similar plight. Her portrayal of the heroine's journey was no longer appreciated for its complexity, but rather scrutinized under the unforgiving lens of the shippers' obsession. When she dared to express excitement over the show's new developments, she was met with a deluge of anger and accusations of being complicit in the "erasure" of the Supercorp relationship. It was a stark contrast to the early days of the show when her interactions with the fandom were characterized by mutual admiration and joyful exchanges. Now, every smile and every word of hers was twisted into a weapon to be used against her, a testament to the tragic transformation of a community that once championed love and inclusivity into one that embraced hostility and division.

The situation came to a boiling point when Jeremy Jordan, known for his role as Winn Schott, dared to perform a light-hearted song at a Comic-Con event, poking fun at the intense shipping culture surrounding the show. The song, which playfully affirmed Kara and Lena's friendship without romantic undertones, was intended to be a moment of levity amidst the intense fan debates. However, the reaction was anything but amusing. The Supercorp shippers took his jest as a declaration of war, and Jordan soon found himself on the receiving end of a barrage of death threats, his inbox flooded with messages that were far from the love and support he had once known from his fanbase. The line between passion and obsession had been crossed, and the consequences were dire for all involved.

Mehcad Brooks, who played James Olsen, became the next target of the Supercorp shippers' wrath when his character entered into a relationship with Lena Luthor. Despite his character's longstanding friendship with Kara and the natural progression of his story arc, the mere existence of a romantic option outside of the Supercorp pairing was seen as an affront. The racial undertones of the backlash against Brooks were impossible to ignore; a Black man daring to pursue a romantic interest with a white character was met with a deluge of racist vitriol. The harassment was relentless, with some fans even going so far as to digitally manipulate images of Brooks to vilify him further. The joy and camaraderie that once defined the Supergirl community had been replaced by a toxic brew of entitlement and hate.

The showrunners, too, were not spared from the wrath of the Supercorp shippers. When James and Lena's relationship grew stronger, the show's creators faced a barrage of accusations that they were "forcing" a narrative to appease a non-existent "anti-Supercorp" agenda. The creators' inboxes were flooded with threats and demands to change the course of the show. The once-celebrated diversity and inclusivity of Supergirl's cast and storylines were now weaponized against them, with the show's very ethos of fighting for justice and equality being twisted into a narrative of oppression and exclusion. The irony was palpable, yet the toxic shippers remained unmoved by the harm they were causing to the very fabric of the fandom they claimed to love.

Chris Wood, who portrayed Mon-El, found himself an unwilling participant in a sordid drama that reached beyond the confines of the screen. As Kara's romantic interest, he became the object of the Supercorp shippers' scorn, with many accusing him of being a homewrecker who had stolen Melissa Benoist away from her ex-husband, Blake Jenner. The accusations grew increasingly personal and spiteful, with some fans even going so far as to claim that Wood was the reason for Benoist's divorce. This spiteful narrative painted Wood as a villainous figure, a heartless usurper who had dared to stand in the way of the "true" love between Kara and Lena. Little did they know that the real-life events were far more complex and tragic than their fictional grievances.

Years later, Melissa Benoist bravely came forward with her harrowing story of abuse at the hands of a former relationship who is believed to have been Blake Jenner. Her revelations sent shockwaves through the fandom, shattering the illusions that had been so meticulously crafted by the Supercorp shippers.

In the aftermath, a disturbing pattern began to emerge as it was discovered that almost immediately following Benoist's public disclosure, certain factions within the Supercorp fandom had twisted her personal tragedy into a twisted narrative that served their own purposes. These shippers took to the digital realm, crafting fanfictions that painted Mon-El, and by extension Chris Wood, as the abuser, rather than the supportive partner and friend he had been in the show. It was a macabre display of how deeply their obsession had distorted their moral compass, using real-life pain to fuel their fictional vendetta against a character they perceived as a threat to their preferred narrative.

The new fanfics spun a sordid tale of Kara, the quintessential heroine, being saved not by her own strength and resilience but by the love of Lena, a narrative that not only trivialized Benoist's experiences but also reinforced harmful stereotypes about women in need of saving by other women. The audacity to appropriate such a sensitive and deeply personal revelation was met with disgust by many, particularly Karamel shippers. Yet, these toxic shippers remained steadfast in their belief that their imagined reality was more important than the actual lives and well-being of the actors who had brought their beloved characters to life.

Chris Wood, now cast as the villain in their warped narratives, faced a new wave of abuse. His social media accounts were inundated with messages that not only vilified him as Mon-El but also claimed that he had been the one responsible for Benoist's suffering. The leap from fiction to reality was a chilling one, and it illustrated the extent to which the Supercorp shippers had lost touch with the distinction between the show and the personal lives of its cast. The once-supportive environment had become a cesspool of projection and spite, with the actors' personal lives being used as fodder for their fanatical fantasies.

In an effort to maintain their sanity and protect themselves from further harm, both Melissa Benoist and Chris Wood made the difficult decision to turn off comments on any Instagram posts that mentioned the other. It was a silent declaration of the boundaries they had to enforce, a digital barricade to shield themselves from the relentless tide of harassment. The vibrant conversations that once filled their social media feeds with excitement and camaraderie had become minefields of toxicity, and the joy they once found in connecting with fans had been tainted beyond recognition, even on posts about their engagement, wedding, pregnancy and birth of their son.

Katie McGrath, who played Lena Luthor, had always been an advocate for fan expression and a vocal supporter of the Supercorp ship, appreciating the passion and creativity of the fandom. However, as the harassment grew, she found herself caught in the crosshairs as well. Her genuine support for Benoist and Wood's relationship was twisted by the toxic faction into a tacit endorsement of the abuse they were facing. The irony was not lost on her; the very essence of the ship she had championed, the love and friendship between Kara and Lena, had been corrupted into a tool for attacking the very people who brought those characters to life.

When McGrath was one of the many Supergirl cast members to model for Wood's mental health help organization, I Don't Mind, it was a gesture of solidarity that highlighted the importance of mental well-being and the need to break down stigmas surrounding mental health. Yet, even this act of kindness and advocacy was not immune to the distortion of the toxic Supercorp shippers. Some fans, blinded by their obsession, claimed that her participation was a covert declaration of love for Wood's character, thereby "betraying" the sanctity of Supercorp. The twisted narrative grew more convoluted as they accused her of using her platform to promote an "anti-Supercorp" agenda and asking if Wood forced McGrath to help campaign, despite the clear intentions of her involvement in the campaign. The very essence of I Don't Mind, which sought to foster an environment of openness and support, was hijacked by a vocal minority who could only see the world through the lens of their own narrow desires.

Jeremy Jordan, who had been a staple of the show since its inception, decided to take a step back from the series after his character, Winn Schott, was written off. The decision was met with mixed reactions from fans, with many questioning the timing and whether it was due to the relentless pressure from the Supercorp shipping community. His exit was not just a loss for the show, but also a symbol of the destructive power of toxic fandom. Jordan had once been a beloved member of the cast, his performances celebrated for their humor and heart. But as the show progressed and the shipping wars intensified, he had become a pawn in a larger, uglier battle that had nothing to do with his own artistic choices or the story he was helping to tell. His departure was a stark reminder that even the most well-intentioned creators and performers could not escape the wrath of those who felt entitled to dictate the course of the narrative.

Chris Wood's exit as Mon-El was perhaps the most contentious of all. His character had been a polarizing figure among fans, with many feeling that his relationship with Kara detracted from the perceived "true love" between her and Lena. As the abuse grew more vicious, it was evident that Wood's experience on the show had been deeply affected. His decision to leave was met with both relief and anger, with some Supercorp shippers claiming victory while others lamented the loss of a character who had grown so much since his introduction. For Wood, the experience had undoubtedly left its mark, a testament to the power of fandom to shape not just the narrative but the lives of those involved in the storytelling.

Mehcad Brooks faced a similar fate when his character, James Olsen, was written out of the show. Despite being a founding member of the cast, Brooks' portrayal of James had often been sidelined in favor of the Supercorp narrative. His character's growth and development were often overshadowed by the fervent desire for Lena and Kara to become romantically involved. When the showrunners allowed James to find love and success outside of the Supercorp dynamic with his relationship with Lena, it was seen by the toxic faction as a betrayal. The joy of his character's evolution was lost in the sea of anger and entitlement. Brooks' exit was not just a loss for the show but a stark reminder of the way in which toxic shipping can diminish the contributions of actors of color, reducing them to mere props in a white-centered romance.

The show's cast and crew, once a tight-knit group who reveled in the love and support of their fanbase, now found themselves navigating a minefield of accusations and hostility. The Supercorp shippers had become a force to be reckoned with, capable of turning any positive interaction into a battleground. The atmosphere at conventions and press events grew tense, as actors and creators alike were forced to tiptoe around the subject of their characters' relationships. The joy of collaborative storytelling and fan interaction had been tainted by the relentless pursuit of a single narrative, leaving a bitterness that was palpable both on and off-screen.

As the final season of Supergirl approached, the anticipation of the Supercorp shippers reached a fever pitch. They were certain that the showrunners would finally succumb to their demands and make their ship a reality. Yet, as the episodes unfolded, it became clear that the show had a different ending in mind. The narrative arc that the writers had been carefully crafting over the years culminated in a finale that saw Kara and Lena's friendship not just endure but flourish. It was a poignant reminder of the show's core message: that love comes in many forms, and that friendship is one of the most powerful and enduring bonds of all.

Everybody lost their minds when Supergirl's series finale didn't give the Supercorp shippers the ending they had so fervently demanded. The fallout was swift and brutal, with the toxic faction of the fandom unleashing a new torrent of abuse and anger. The cast and crew, who had worked tirelessly to bring the story of Kara Danvers to life, were vilified for not bending to the will of a vocal minority of toxicity. The actors who had dedicated years of their careers to the show were vilified, their personal relationships and mental health dragged through the mud by fans who claimed to love them. Yet, amidst the chaos, there was a sense of relief among the show's broader fanbase, who had watched with horror as their community had been hijacked by toxicity.

The Supercorp shippers screamed their grief into the digital void, feeling betrayed by the very show they had claimed to champion. The irony was not lost on the rest of the fandom; here was a group that had claimed to fight for representation, yet when it was given to another character in the form of Alex Danvers marrying a woman, it was deemed invalid. The cries for diversity and LGBTQ+ inclusion had been weaponized, wielded like a cudgel to bludgeon anyone who didn't adhere to their narrow vision of what that representation should look like. The reality was that Supergirl had been a bastion of LGBTQ+ visibility since its inception, with characters like Alex, Nia Nal and Maggie Sawyer paving the way for more nuanced and complex portrayals of queer relationships in mainstream media. Yet, the Supercorp shippers could only see the world in terms of their own desires, dismissing the value of any narrative that didn't conform to their narrow viewpoint.

In stark contrast, the introduction of Nia Nal, played by the charismatic Nicole Maines, was met with an outpouring of love and acceptance from the majority of the Supergirl fanbase. Nia, a transgender woman with the power of dream manipulation, brought a new dimension to the show's ensemble, embodying hope, strength, and courage in a way that resonated deeply with viewers. Maines, the first transgender superhero to appear on a CW show, became a beacon of representation and a symbol of progress in a genre that had often fallen short in this regard. Her portrayal was met with applause and admiration, not just for her acting chops but for the authenticity she brought to a character that was so much more than a token gesture towards inclusivity.

But not all were as welcoming. On Tumblr, a transphobic radical feminist Supercorp shipper, unable to reconcile their narrow worldview with the show's evolving narrative, lashed out. They posted a blog entry questioning Nia's identity, using hateful language and misgendering her as a "him." The post was a blatant act of disrespect, not just to the character but to the entire transgender community. It was a stark reminder that even within the LGBTQ+ spectrum, there were those who sought to diminish and erase the experiences of others.

Evidently showing that while racism and bullying was okay for Supercorp shippers, transphobia wasn't a card they were willing to play, the backlash against the transphobic blogger was swift and severe. The Supergirl fandom rallied together in defense of Nia Nal and Nicole Maines, using their collective voice to drown out the hate. Fans from all corners of the spectrum, including those who had once shipped Supercorp, banded together in a display of solidarity that was truly inspiring. They recognized the importance of genuine representation and the impact it had on the lives of transgender individuals. The incident served as a stark reminder that while the love for a fictional couple could be intense, it should never come at the cost of real people's identities and experiences.

The IMDb trivia section for the 2021 Mortal Kombat film, in a bizarre twist, had become an unexpected battleground for the Supercorp saga. Twice listed as a "fun fact," Mehcad Brooks' name was associated with being "toxic and rude."

Why is this interesting? Because the Supercorp fandom was shocked when Mechad Brooks snapped at Supercorp shippers on his Instagram when one of them told him to stay away from Katie McGrath. The fandom exploded with accusations of his rudeness, which spread like wildfire across social media. It was a rare moment where a celebrity broke the fourth wall and addressed toxic fandom behavior directly. But what's even more intriguing is the persistence of the narrative. Despite Brooks' portrayal of James Olsen on Supergirl being widely praised for his charm and grace, his name is now tarnished with a label that seems to stick like a stubborn piece of gum on the sole of a shoe. The IMDb trivia section, typically reserved for light-hearted anecdotes and behind-the-scenes tidbits, had been appropriated by a faction of Supercorp shippers to perpetuate their grievances. It was as if they had claimed a piece of internet real estate to broadcast their discontent to the world.

Hayley, known online as Redkrypto, was one of the most notorious Supercorp shippers. Her digital footprint on Tumblr was a minefield of anger and bitterness directed at anyone who dared to support the Karamel or Guardiancorp ships, which involved Kara with other characters. Her blog was a toxic stew of accusations, manipulation, and harassment. She had a knack for turning the most innocuous interactions into fodder for her crusade against perceived threats to her preferred ship. Her followers, a small but vocal group, eagerly lapped up her rhetoric, creating a echo chamber of negativity that spilled over into the wider Supergirl community. The line between critique and bullying had been crossed, and the effects were palpable.

Following the comic con "incident" as discussed above, Jeremy Jordan suffered severe food poisoning following lunch at Chipotle with the rest of the cast and was hospitalized, Redkrypto "joked" that someone who worked at the restaurant was a Supercorp shipper. Whether she was legitimately joking or being serious is unknown but this could've gotten the employee fired if the joke went too far. Hayley's digital crusade had grown so pervasive that even the most innocent of events were now seen through the lens of her toxic worldview.

The situation grew more alarming when Redkrypto took her rhetoric to new lows. In a series of blog posts, she launched a scathing attack on asexual fans, claiming they "belonged in the sewer". The irony of her words was lost on her devoted followers, who echoed her sentiments with a fervor that was both disturbing and disheartening. The Supergirl fandom, which had once been a haven for all, had become a battleground where even sexuality was a point of contention. Her diatribes grew more extreme, as she began to target bisexual fans who dared to date men, insisting they were "straight-washed" and not truly part of the LGBTQ+ community. The division she sowed grew wider, fracturing the once unified fanbase into a fragmented mess of accusations and spite.

The toxic environment that Hayley had created was not limited to social media. Her influence had seeped into the real world, where her words had tangible consequences. Conventions, once a place of refuge for fans to come together and share their love for the show, had become battlegrounds where alliances were drawn in the sand. Panels were no longer about celebrating the show but about interrogating the cast and crew on their personal relationships and narrative choices. The joy of the event was replaced by tension as actors and creators tried to navigate a minefield of hostile questions and accusations, all while maintaining the façade of a happy, inclusive community.

When the final season of Supergirl aired, Hayley's anger grew with each episode that did not bend to her will. Her blog posts grew longer, her words more caustic, and her accusations more personal. The showrunners, actors, and even fellow fans who dared to disagree with her were vilified in a relentless stream of vitriol. It was clear that for Hayley, the ship had become more than just a fictional romance—it was a battleground for her own identity and self-worth. The validation she sought in the arms of her "OTP" had consumed her to the point of obsession, and the realization that she may not get the ending she craved was unbearable.

As the finale approached, Hayley's digital presence grew increasingly erratic. She posted feverishly, crafting elaborate conspiracy theories about the show's narrative choices and the motives of the cast and crew. Her followers grew more desperate, clinging to her every word as if it were a lifeline in a sea of disappointment. The tension grew so thick that even the most devoted Supercorp shippers began to feel the strain, some questioning if the fight was truly worth the cost.

The night of the finale, Hayley's blog remained eerily silent. The anticipation in the fandom was palpable, with fans across the globe waiting for her reaction. As the credits rolled and the reality sank in that Supercorp was not to be, the digital silence was deafening. The Supergirl community held its collective breath, waiting for the storm that was sure to come.

A few Supercorp shippers turned on her for getting their hopes up for years only to watch them crumble before their eyes. Some accused her of being a "sellout," while others claimed she had lost touch with the "true essence" of the fandom. The accusations stung, but Hayley remained steadfast, her resolve to fight for her ship unwavering. Yet, deep down, she couldn't ignore the nagging doubt that whispered she had gone too far, that her obsession had turned from a labor of love into something dark.

Whether her blog was forcibly deleted by Tumblr for the harassment or her ego being damaged for the show not bending to her will, Redkrypto's account was deactivated shortly after the finale. The absence of her toxic voice was a relief to many in the fandom, but the scars she left were not so easily erased.

Part of me feels bad for the shippers who genuinely didn't bully anyone in the cast or crew or fandom and wanted Supercorp to be canon, who had their love story validated. They're the true victims here. They didn't deserve the toxic behavior from Redkrypto and her ilk. The damage done by a few radicals had cast a pall over their innocent love for a TV couple.

But the aftermath of Supercorp's end was a reckoning for many. Fans who had been swept up in the ship war took a step back and reflected on the community they had become. The joy of shipping, of rooting for a couple, had been twisted into something ugly and harmful. The cast and crew had become pawns in a game that had grown out of control, and it was time to dismantle the toxic structures that had been built.

Looking to other fandoms, one could not help but draw parallels to the Olicity and Snowbarry ships. In Arrow, the tumultuous relationship between Oliver Queen and Felicity Smoak had once been the epicenter of fan adoration. Yet, as the showrunners wove a narrative that didn't always align with the shippers' desires, a toxic undercurrent emerged. The Olicity fandom, much like Supercorp, had become a force to be reckoned with, their influence extending beyond the confines of fanfiction and into the lives of the actors and creators. The relentless pursuit of their "endgame" led to a frenzy of entitlement, with any deviation from their desired plotline vilified.

Credit to the Olicity fandom, their ship was canon and remained the main couple until the end of the series but at the sacrifice of Laurel Lance and her actress Katie Cassidy's relationship with the show and fandom. The Snowbarry shippers, on the other hand, faced a rollercoaster of emotions with the on-again, off-again romance between Barry Allen and Iris West, hoping that would lead to Barry getting with Caitlin Snow.

In the Arrowverse, the Olicity shippers had their way, often at the cost of the show's narrative coherence. Storylines were manipulated, characters were sidelined, and any potential romantic competition was vilified. The once-promising character of Laurel Lance, who had been an integral part of the show's foundation, was reduced to a tragic plot device to fuel the Olicity relationship. The toxic rhetoric grew so intense that Katie Cassidy, who played Laurel, found herself in the crosshairs of the fandom's rage, her every move scrutinized and criticized, no matter how much she tried to rise above it.

When Laurel was controversially killed off in the show's fourth season, the Olicity shippers celebrated, viewing it as a clear path for their preferred couple. Yet, the fallout from this narrative decision was profound. The Arrow fandom was irrevocably split, with many feeling betrayed by the showrunners for sacrificing a beloved character to serve a romantic plotline. The death of Laurel Lance became a symbol of the toxicity that can fester within a fandom when the desire for a specific romantic pairing overshadows the integrity of the show's storytelling and character development. The subsequent treatment of Katie Cassidy, who was vilified for playing a character that had been written to challenge the Olicity narrative, served as a stark reminder of the real-life consequences of fandom entitlement.

For those who had invested themselves in the Laurel-Oliver relationship, known as "Lauriver" shippers, the loss was particularly acute. Laurel's canonical last words to Oliver, urging him to be with Felicity, felt like a slap in the face. It was a narrative twist that seemed to cater directly to the Olicity fanbase, a knife twisted in the heart of those who had rooted for the original pairing. The anger was swift and decisive; a boycott of the remaining episodes of the season was organized, with hashtags like #NoKatieNoArrow and #NoLaurelNoArrow trending on Twitter as fans rallied around their fallen heroine. The boycott was not just a statement of dissent but a declaration of war, a battle cry against the perceived tyranny of the showrunners.

The CW network, noticing the seismic shift in fan sentiment, stepped in and instructed the Arrow showrunners to bring Laurel back. But the damage had already been done. The trust between the show and its viewers had been shattered, leaving a fractured fanbase in its wake. The showrunners, in an attempt to appease the disenchanted, brought back Katie Cassidy not as the beloved Laurel Lance but as Earth-2's villainous counterpart, Black Siren. The move was met with more fury than relief, as it felt like a cruel twist of fate to those who had invested so much in the original character's journey.

The decision to rebrand Black Siren as the new Black Canary was a strategic one, a move that sought to rekindle the love lost by the Olicity narrative. The transformation was a slow burn, with Katie Cassidy delivering a powerful performance that showcased the character's complexity. Initially, her character remained a villain, a constant thorn in Team Arrow's side, but as the seasons progressed, she began to grapple with the echoes of the Laurel they had lost. The writers delicately wove a narrative of redemption, one that allowed her to embody the essence of the hero they had so fervently loved without betraying the integrity of the original character arc.

Through a series of heart-wrenching episodes, Laurel's doppelgänger faced the consequences of her actions and the weight of her identity. She was forced to confront her past as a villain and the pain she had caused, particularly to Oliver Queen. The dynamic between them grew taut with tension, a dance of regret and resentment that slowly evolved into something more. It was clear that the writers were treading a fine line, not wanting to diminish the memory of Laurel Lance but also eager to give the character a second chance at heroism. The journey was fraught with emotional turmoil, as the fandom watched with bated breath to see if this new iteration of their beloved character could truly atone for her past sins.

The transformation of Black Siren into the new Black Canary was not instantaneous. It was a meticulously crafted arc that showcased the depth of Katie Cassidy's acting and the writers' commitment to redemption. Each episode was a delicate balance of light and shadow, revealing the humanity beneath the hardened exterior. The moments of vulnerability she shared with the team, particularly with her father Quentin Lance, served as a poignant reminder of the love that once existed in her heart. The scenes of her training, her struggle to control her powers and find her moral compass, were a testament to the complexity of the human condition and the endless capacity for change.

What does this have to do with Supercorp? Because it shows what happened when the writers of a show listened to the fandom about a popular ship. It was a cautionary tale that Supergirl's showrunners had to navigate carefully. The aftermath of Laurel's death and the subsequent fan revolt was a stark reminder that the pursuit of "endgame" happiness could come at a steep cost. They had to balance the desire to appease the vocal minority with the need to serve the story and its diverse cast of characters.

In the end, the shipping wars in the Arrowverse proved that the ultimate fate of a couple on a CW show was not the be-all, end-all of a character's story. Characters evolved, relationships grew, and even the most steadfast of ships could change course. The real beauty of these shows was not in the romance but in the friendships, the growth, and the journeys of self-discovery that each character embarked upon. Supergirl, like its sister shows, had a multitude of narratives to explore beyond romance, from Kara's development as a leader to the complexities of Lena's redemption arc.

Maybe the Supercorp fandom will eventually be deader that Clark Kent and Lois Lane after their finale of Superman and Lois, but for now, the wounds are still fresh. The shipping wars had left a gaping chasm in the heart of the Supergirl fandom, one that threatened to swallow any semblance of unity and camaraderie whole. Yet, amidst the ruins of the fractured fanbase, a quiet revolution began to take shape.

Some fans, tired of the toxicity, started to re-evaluate what they truly loved about the show. They turned their focus back to the themes of empowerment, friendship, and family that had drawn them in from the beginning. They found solace in the unbreakable bonds between Kara and Alex, the Danvers sisters' unconditional love serving as a beacon of hope amidst the chaos. They celebrated the nuanced portrayal of Lena Luthor's moral compass and her struggle with the weight of her family name. They even dared to explore other relationships, like Kara's blossoming romance with Mon-El and Lena's partnership with James Olsen. It was as if the fog of shipping had lifted, revealing a rich tapestry of narratives that had been obscured by the obsession with one ship.

I conclude that this may have been a tad biased in its stance against the Supercorp toxicity. After all, who doesn't have a favorite pairing or two? But it also argues that the love for a show shouldn't come at the cost of its cast, crew, or fellow fans. So, thank you, dear reader, for wading through this minefield of emotions and emerging unscathed. I hope you've gained a newfound appreciation for the power of shipping and the importance of maintaining a healthy fan community instead of resorting to bullying and death threats.

#essay #essay writing #fandom toxicity #shipping culture #arrow fandom #supergirl fandom #fandom bs #fandom bullshit #shipping bullshit.#melissa benoist #chris wood #katie mcgrath #tyler hoechlin #jeremy jordan #mehcad brooks

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whatamessofthoughtswithjess · 4 months ago

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I’d like to talk about my experience with being a part of a fandom. It’s something I’ve never been involved in before. It’s something I’ll never be a part of again going forward. This is all my opinion, my thoughts, and my experience. I’ll remind you that you do not have to agree with what I say but, I do ask for you to be respectful of my space, & keep the hate out of my comment section.

Let’s discuss toxic behavior amongst fandoms, shall we?

I, myself had never been a part of a fandom until recently, therefore I was unaware of parasocial behaviors. I must say that witnessing this sort of behavior has been quite an experience. One in which I could have went my entire life without learning about & I would have been A okay with that. 😅

I’ve always been a fan of Bridgerton. I began watching the show during the COVID lockdown & I immediately fell in love with the series. I was what they in the fandom would describe as a “general audience” watcher. I enjoyed the show immensely but, I wasn’t completely obsessed.

It wasn’t until the season 3 press tour that I became engulfed in the show, the storyline, & by the actors playing the roles of Penelope & Colin. I, amongst thousands of others became completely obsessed. We were completely immersed in the love story that was being sold to us. It became this unhealthy obsession which in turn lead to blurring the lines between fiction and reality.

The Bridgerton fandom, specifically the Lukola/Polin fandom has gone from great fun, excitement, & and a way to escape the hardships of life, to now a toxic atmosphere, full of bullies spreading hate & unrealistic narratives.

I’ve noticed that there are different groups within the fandom. It’s like High School all over again, full of clicks. You’ve got:

1.) Polinators: this group of individuals solely “ships” Penelope Featherington & Colin Bridgerton. Any content made or discussions had are kept within the show & to the characters. Luke Newton & Nicola Coughlan aren’t discussed as they are separate from the characters they play.

2.) Polinators/Lukolas: this group of individuals ship both Penelope & Colin as well as Nicola & Luke. This group will make content for both Polin & Lukola. Most individuals within this group can still separate the characters from the actors. Lines exist but at times become blurred. These individuals are still logical & will accept evidence presented to them. They recognize that storytelling and reality are separate from one other. Typically they can have conversations with others within the fandom without hateful rhetoric or bullying.

3.) LocoLukolas: these individuals have completely morphed Luke & Nicola into Colin & Penelope. They can’t decipher who is who, what is done for PR, or what is reality. The lines aren’t blurred, they are completely erased. These individuals took the PR tour as a real life love story unfolding between Luke & Nicola. They’ve created these elaborate stories and narratives in their minds & fed them to others within their SM platforms. The insane narratives spread like wildfire which in turn creates division within the fandom. Once division is created, bullying & unhinged, creepy behavior begins. There is no arguing with this group. They won’t be told differently from the narrative they’ve created within their minds. They’ll gaslight anyone who tries to go against the narrative they’ve created. They’ll use their platform to push this narrative which in turn creates more individuals thinking the exact same as they do. They can’t be convinced of anything that will go against the narrative they’ve created. These individuals can be very dangerous. Spreading lies and opinion as fact rather than opinion. Gaslighting anyone who doesn’t agree. Don’t waste your time fighting with them. It isn’t worth it.

LukeStans: this group worships Luke Newton. “All hail Luke Newton! He’s our King!” Do not criticize Luke, do not judge his life choices, do not disagree with his decisions, do not speak unkindly about Luke in any sort of way.. or these people will morph into vicious, venomous creatures who will attack you without mercy. Luke does no wrong. He makes no mistakes. He makes no ill choices. He’s perfect. Precious. Needs protected at all costs. These people will also talk all sorts of shit about his girlfriend. Belittle the relationship that him and her have. Encourage cheating with him and Nicola. Disrespect Nicola’s relationship if not with Luke. But.. don’t dare talk bad about Luke. Don’t defend Antonia. Don’t defend Nicola & Jake Dunn.. or be prepared to go to war.

NicolaStans: this group worships NicolaCoughlan. “All hail Nicola Coughlan! She’s our Queen!” Do not criticize Nicola in any sort of manner. Like the LukeStans the NicolaStans will also morph into vicious, venomous creatures that will attack you without mercy. They’ll state they love Nicola but only if she’s pinning after a taken man. They’ll defend Nicola but, only if it’s for reasons that include Luke Newton. They’ll quickly turn on Nicola if you mention her relationship with Jake Dunn. They’ll ask you to respect her privacy all while “manifesting pictures from Brazil” that would show both parties cheating on their significant others. Ope. They’ll turn on her if you even mention the idea that she could be in a serious relationship with a man 13 years younger than her.. insisting that “she would never be so public about her love life” or “she’d never date a man that young.” This group is only fans of Nicola if she abides to the expectations they’ve created for her in their minds.

When I first joined the fandom it was during the press tour. Therefore everyone was riding the high that the PR tour was providing everyone with. New videos were being released every few days. It was fun, exciting, and entertaining for everyone! We were eagerly anticipating the release of season 3. It was happy times, fun times.

Once the press tour ended & part two released the fandom imploded. I’d say exploded but no, it imploded. The fandom is collapsing within itself, quite suddenly, and violently. You’ve got rational fans who understand that Luke & Nic are separate from Colin & Pen and who respect their private lives. You’ve got semi rational fans who understand that they are separate from their characters but still hope they’ll be endgame. You’ve got the LukeStans fighting with the NicolaStans. Then you’ve got the LucoLukolas who are just outright insane. Spreading misinformation and creating elaborate false narratives to keep their already sunken ship afloat. You’ve got recovering Lukolas trying to be some sort of voice of reason.. and it’s all just one big chaotic cluster f**k at this point. The fandom is split. It’s chaos. It’s not fun anymore.

Luke went into hiding because fans are weird AF. He comes back after over a month MIA and the fans are already acting bat shit crazy. Fans were messaging the resort he stayed in, asking who stayed with him, forcing the resort to remove a thank you post to Luke. ABSOLUTE INSANITY! TOXIC BEHAVIOR! The entitlement fans have regarding Luke’s personal life is absolutely disgusting. This man owes the fans nothing. He deserves his privacy. He deserves to spend time with his girlfriend without the bullshit comments on how “he’s yet to claim her” or have his relationship be called a “situationship” only because he’s not made a post on his SM “claiming her” because “he owes the fans that.” Absolutely insane! He owes the fans nothing. If he wants to keep his personal life off his business SM page then we as his fans need to respect that decision. He’s travelled with Antonia multiple times, he’s been papped with her on several occasions, she attends work events with him, vacations with him privately, she’s close with his family and friends, that man HAS CLAIMED HER PUBLICLY. Something as ridiculous as a SM post means nothing when the evidence is already there for all to see. If fans choose to ignore that? That’s on them not on Luke. Stop with the entitlement. It’s weird. He owes you nothing.

Nicola has said over and over again that she is chronically online. She sees the weird shit that’s posted. She sees the lives discussing sunglasses reflections and t shirt creases.. elaborate stories from Brazil that never happened, the belittling of her relationship with Jake Dunn, calling her man gay and claiming he has a boyfriend when this man has NEVER stated his sexuality publicly, she sees this shit. It’s toxic, it’s weird, and it’s sure as hell disrespectful AF especially considering it’s coming from people who claim they are her fans. 🥴 She is posting less & less on social media & I can’t say I blame her. Who wants to have every single thing they post become a 3 hour TikTok live conspiracy theory break down? I sure as hell wouldn’t want that if it were me.

This fandom has got to take a serious step back. If it’s consuming your thoughts, disturbing your mental health, or emotional health then take some time away from SM & spend some time focusing on other things. Read a book, listen to some music, go out with friends or family, spend some time in nature, do whatever you need to do in order to protect yourself from all of the toxicity.

For the love of all things holy.. stop taking the crazy behavior directly to Nicola and Luke & to anyone involved in their lives. We as fans need to remember that these are real life people, with real life lives and loved ones, who like us have feelings and emotions. We need to respect their privacy. They owe us nothing regarding their personal lives. We shouldn’t expect as much. These two gave us such an amazing season. The least we can do is support their choices even if we don’t agree with them. 🫶🏻

Again, these are my opinions & my personal experiences with dealing with people within this fandom. I’ve had my fair share of arguments with people & I’ve been attacked by many who didn’t like the evidence I presented them with that went against their narrative. My experiences are my own. I understand not everyone is toxic in this fandom but, at the same time there are many that are. We as a fandom need to accept what is, let go of what isn’t meant to be, and continue to support Luke & Nicola in all their future endeavors. As their fans, we owe them that much!

Y’all behave yourselves & have a good one! ✌🏻

#bridgerton #nicola coughlan #luke newton #colin x penelope #fandom toxicity #toxic fandom

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madamefeu · 2 months ago

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Radioapple stans are starting to sicken me just as much as Huskerdust stans. People on Wattpad keep saying shit like ‘HAHA RADIOAPPLE’S GONNA BE CANON’ under my Radiorose fics, and honestly, fuck them all. Radioapple will never be canon, die mad about it. And even if it was gonna be canon, that doesn’t give you the right to harass people for liking other ships.

#hazbin hotel #anti radioapple #anti huskerdust #fandom toxicity #radioapple will never be canon #Radiorose

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sickofthistoxicshit · 7 months ago

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Thanks for your response to that other anon about Tommy; you’re totally right. I also was intrigued, even liked him and Buck after their first kiss. But his closet comment and behavior on their first date, like he didn’t care that Buck has LITERALLY just figured out his bisexuality and that’s A LOT to process, his dismissive attitude towards Buck’s ideas and feelings (the bachelor party henley, the “enjoy it while it lasts” at the medal ceremony)….and then add in the way some fans have gone 0 to 100 on them so quickly, even calling them endgame, and likely at least in part JUST because it’s two men…it’s become such a turn off. I was neutral, even wanted to like them at first, but now am counting the days until it ends. And it’s not because I’m a BoB or would dislike any Buck LI that isn’t Eddie. And I don’t agree with anyone getting HATE (we can sideeye and judge people’s actions ($cameos$) But I think seeing Buck in a canon male/male relationship has caused some people to lose their damn minds. Ship and let ship! Stay in your sandbox, we’ll stay in ours!

LOL I am so removed from all the crowing bummies that I have to ask wth is BoB?

I actually went to look it up and found some interesting options, I am going with this one:

"Bob" is a generic and common name, and using it can be a way of avoiding formalities or creating a relaxed and approachable atmosphere

If you have the other meaning go ahead and tell me, like bummies I understand what benefits me in the moment😂

I kinda wish ppl will look up the meaning of "comphet" (I actually looked it up) that Ryan keeps bringing up in his interviews - that way ppl can stop saying crap things about him being the one to derail Eddie-T because he was supposedly against it. - Which is bullshit, Tim repeatedly said it was because the Natalia actress couldn't come back and M actress could. - Also, Originally T was supposed to be Lucy, she just couldn't come back so they took Lou in a pinch, so Obviously the endgame sure as shit wasn't the pilot.

And you're right, T's attitude was condescending at best, I was talking about it with a mutual the other day, and said that if they really had an interest to build BT properly, also by the time they came up with BT they knew they were being renewed for S8, they could have slowed into this. Actually make Buck's coming out story, a coming out story, not "So first date was a bust, how bout you come to my sister's wedding?" like who does that?

They could have started as friends with Lou being a gay guru, they could have had private dates until Buck was actually out to everyone and ready to be seen in public.

There could have been feelings involved that developed over time.

I gave the example of Tim-Ashley vs Nolan-Bailey from The Rookie, while Ashley was fairly kept to the background (btw she got more screen time than T, just saying) while Bailey was constantly and still being weaved into the story, intricated into Nolan's life, because he was meant to end up with her.

What ppl, who seem to have never watched good tv in their lives, don't seem to understand is that there is a way to write a story, and 911 not only screwed up spectacularly with Buck and Eddie's storylines, but they managed to make it clear from the get go that any LI to come along would be written just bad enough for it to be clear that they are not lasting.

Even furious, Eddie never walked away from Buck. Even when Buck was an asshole in 2x01, Eddie stood his ground and insisted they sort it through making it clear that they are on the same side, that he cares about him and wanting to be his friend. - His partner, a team.

Tommy, like all his predecessors, walked away as soon as something didn't fit his little comfort zone. Tommy walked away on that first date, he didn't contact Buck after that, Buck had to make contact and apologize for not being comfortable on his first date with a guy, like how messed up is that?

And Tommy's little acid retort in front of Eddie in the restaurant before that? From the side it's hilarious for someone who was never in that position. It was mean and uncalled for, but not exactly a surprise because T was never much of am understanding person, he was pretty much an ass from the get go in S2, only difference now is that he is out of the closet.

How did Athena put it when Michael first brought his new bf home after they got divorced? "If Michael had cheated on me with a woman, no one would have expected me to slap on a fake smile and welcome her into my home."

And that is exactly what the GA expects us to do, so what if Buck injured Eddie for attention? He's bi now.

So what if T was an ass and pretty much dismissive towards Buck and talks to him often in a bored way like one talks to a child? He's gay now.

A certain sexual preference does not excuse bad behavior. A person's behavior is supposed to be taken at face value, and not excused just because that person is now seeing someone who happens to be of the same gender.

Crappy behavior is just that - crappy behavior - equal accountability and all that.

I actually liked Taylor for Buck in S2, I think Lucy could have been perfect for him in S5, but the writers made sure to smear their characters in the eyes of the GA from the beginning, thus ending up with another failed relationship, while Buck's relationship with Eddie thrives from one episode to another for the last 7 seasons. One has to wonder about that even if they don't ship buddie.

Same pattern here with T. I was prepared to like him with Buck, I was prepared to see Buck making his way out of the closet with someone who would make him feel safe to do it, not kiss him unprepared under the pretense of coming originally on Eddie's behalf. Not that crap show that was that restaurant date. Not Buck apologizing after feeling insecure and exposed in public for the first time out of the closet and so many other things. - I'm getting the same vibes as Taylor looking through her phone in disinterest in 4x11 as Buck recites some google fact.

And you're right, the fans going from 0-200 after one kiss was just ridiculous, like chill people have you never seen two men kiss before?

I have, on screen and in RL, I grew up with lovely lgbtq+ friends from childhood, it's not all that. When my gay best friend dated someone who didn't treat him right, I told him to get rid of him. When my cousin's gf treated her like property and like she owes her something I urged her to find a better more nurturing person to be happy with.

Two men kissing is not endgame making, hell, from experience two men having sex (hot as it is) is not endgame making.

Love, passion, trust, security, fun, friends gatherings where they're cute and gross, can be made into a healthy endgame making relationship.

Buck and Tommy have physical attraction, they make for a steamy picture but nothing else.

And Lou, I am just... I don't know, I would have preferred not to find out the things he's done as cast of 911, I am just so disappointed.

I loved Lou, now it's just meh. Like he's trying to make as much money as he can before he finishes his way in the show is all kinds of wrong. Also very misleading to the ppl who are hanging on his every word. (And I don't think Oliver likes it either, he is pointedly ignoring any scene with T, not promoting anything that doesn't involve Eddie and Christopher or Buck's own development).

Even Ryan didn't know he was going to get shot until he got the 4x13 script, he was sure he was being killed off until he talked to whoever was showrunner at the time lol.

So Lou can't know he just talks out of his ass and make himself look bad in the process.

And I agree, ppl should be free to ship whoever they desire, but they are not entitled to force their desires upon others, I'm talking about both sides of the ships not just one. (Although I gotta say I've never got hate asks until a certain ship popped up this season. A lot of hateful - now blocked anons - that I refused to give stage to.)

These toxic battles are useless and made this season worse than it's writing.

All that's left is kick back and hope this season's last episode can salvage the poor and repetitive storylines we got this season, - I mean even Henren and Bathena got a replay of S4.

And don't even get me started of the fart shaped storyline Eddie got after switching last minute.

I'm tired lol

didn't mean for this to become this long monster, If you made it this far thank you, sending LOTS of love. ❤️

#911 ask #anti tommy kinard #anti bucktommy #anti bummies - seriously ppl get a life #evan buckley #eddie diaz #buddie #ryan guzman #oliver stark #not tagging the third wheel #911 spoilers #911 speculation #fandom toxicity #fandom hypocrisy #deluweil replies #thank you anon for the ask❤️#btw as per usual don't come at me in my inbox and don't repost to counteract make your own post

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