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Fandom

Iszi Lawrence and guests discuss the history and inexorable rise of fandom.

When the writer Sir Arthur Conan Doyle killed off his most famous literary creation, Sherlock Holmes, readers were so angry that thousands cancelled their subscriptions to the magazine in which the stories appeared. The editor and Conan Doyle himself were overwhelmed with letters from a furious public - fans who instead of accepting the death of their favourite fictional character then started to write and share their own stories featuring Holmes. They eventually formed clubs and appreciation societies, brought together by a common interest.
This practice is something we recognise today across the globe. In areas as diverse as sport, music, film and TV (to mention just a few), fans are not just passive consumers as the recent activities of Swifties (Taylor Swift fans) demonstrate. They鈥檙e actively engaged, creating content of their own and connecting with others to nurture a shared identity. The internet has made that easier than ever before, with fans now using their platform to influence political discourse too.
Iszi Lawrence and guests discuss the history and inexorable rise of fandom, and ask what鈥檚 behind the displays of devotion. Plus listeners around the world share their fan stories.

Release date:

50 minutes

On radio

Sat 28 Dec 2024 12:06GMT

Broadcasts

  • Sat 28 Dec 2024 12:06GMT
  • Sun 29 Dec 2024 03:06GMT
  • Sun 29 Dec 2024 17:06GMT
  • Sun 29 Dec 2024 18:06GMT
  • New Year's Day 2025 10:06GMT
  • Thu 2 Jan 2025 00:06GMT

Do you think political or business leaders need to be charismatic? Or do you prefer highly competent but somewhat stern people?

Do you think political or business leaders need to be charismatic? Or do you prefer highly competent but somewhat stern people?

We鈥檇 love to hear your views on charm and charisma for a future Forum.

Podcast