How Can Theatre Fandoms Be Less Toxic

by Chris Peterson

Let’s get real. Theatre fandoms are some of the most passionate groups you’ll find anywhere. We obsess over every note, every costume detail, every twist and turn in the story. That kind of passion is awesome. But sometimes it goes sideways and turns into straight-up toxicity. When that happens, what should be fun ends up full of drama.

We’ve all seen it. Endless fights online about spoilers. Shipping wars that get ugly fast. Calls to “cancel” actors or creatives because they made a choice you don’t like. It wears everyone out.

Here’s the truth. Toxic fandom behavior doesn’t just hurt the actors, writers, and designers. It drags all of us down. It ruins the community and steals the joy that brought us to theatre in the first place.

So what can we do? How do we keep theatre fandoms exciting, creative, and full of love without the drama? Let’s break it down.

1. Remember These Are Real People

Behind every character you love is a person giving their all every night. When someone messes up a line or the casting isn’t what you hoped for, don’t tear them down. Negative comments and harassment hurt. Imagine if someone treated you that way.

Sometimes actors share their personal stories or struggles online. Those moments remind us they’re human, juggling pressures we might never see. Instead of piling on, try sending support or simply enjoying their work.

Here’s a simple rule: if you wouldn’t say it to their face, don’t say it online.

2. Different Opinions Are Okay

Theatre is personal. What moves you might not move someone else. That’s totally fine. Instead of turning every disagreement into a fight, listen. Respect other people’s tastes. You might even learn something new.

Think about it this way: if everyone loved exactly the same thing, fandom would be pretty boring. The mix of opinions keeps conversations interesting and helps us see shows in new ways.

3. Spoilers Need Respect

Spoilers can kill the excitement for a show. But the game of “I’ll spoil it first” just makes things worse. Use spoiler warnings. If someone hasn’t seen the show, respect that. Being patient and thoughtful keeps the community strong.

Sometimes people rush to share spoilers out of excitement, not malice. If you feel tempted to drop a spoiler, take a moment and ask yourself: is it worth ruining the surprise for others?

4. Shipping Can Be Fun — But Know the Line

Shipping characters is a big part of fandom life. But it gets toxic when it crosses into harassing real people or obsessing too much over relationships that aren’t real.

It’s one thing to cheer for a ship and fan theories. It’s another to attack actors or bash other fans who ship differently. Keep your fantasy and reality separate. Don’t let shipping hurt your experience or the people making the show happen.

5. Celebrate More and Complain Less

It’s easy to spot problems, but way better to highlight what’s great. Share your favorite scenes. Cheer on new artists. Support shows and projects you love. Positive vibes rub off. When you focus on the good, you help build a happier fandom for everyone.

Try sharing stories about how a show inspired you or made you feel something new. Those posts bring people together and remind us why we’re here.

6. Take Breaks When You Need To

Fandom drama is exhausting. If you feel overwhelmed or stressed, it’s okay to step back. Take a break from social media or forums. Focus on your own well-being.

Maybe watch a show without reading any online chatter. Or catch up with friends who love theatre but don’t get caught up in the drama. You’ll come back refreshed, ready to enjoy the magic all over again.

7. Speak Up Without Adding Fuel

If you see toxicity, call it out. But do it kindly. Pointing out bad behavior is important, but piling on hate only makes things worse.

Try to educate instead of attack. Show empathy, not insults. Hold people accountable, but remember kindness is powerful even when standing your ground. Theatre is about connection. Between actors and audience, and among fans. Toxicity breaks those connections. Love, respect, and kindness keep the magic alive.

So next time you feel like jumping into a feud or leaving a harsh comment, pause. Take a breath. Remember why you fell in love with theatre. The magic deserves better. We deserve better.

Let’s be the fandom that lifts each other up, supports creativity, and celebrates the art we all love. That’s the community worth being part of.