Insults and Threats: When Is Bad Fan Behavior Enough?
Monday, 04 October 2010 23:35 | Last Updated on Tuesday, 05 October 2010 00:31 | Written by Alice Jester | 
| 
| 
I’m a pretty outspoken person when it comes to bad and totally uncalled for fan behavior. I’ve written numerous articles about poor fandom acts but after a while, there wasn't more to be said. I say it, people agree, but it doesn’t matter. A few select people forget to be human beings when protected by anonymity of the Internet. They think they can say anything and get away with it. Sadly, many online sites still allow this behavior to happen.
I’ve learned to dismiss bad comments. I can’t even read comment threads anymore on some sites and gloss over anything that is excessive in negativity (aka, hurling crude insults). Today however something made me sick. In an article on Zap2It that positively promoted Jensen Ackles’ directorial debut, fans started shooting off their mouths again about both Jensen Ackles and Jim Beaver. One commenter insulted Jensen’s professional integrity and another actually insulted his wife. Another said comments about Jim Beaver without checking their facts.
Jim Beaver, a very good friend to the online fandom and someone who chooses to maintain a presence on Twitter and Facebook despite the sometimes crazy, couldn’t take these comments either. Here is his post on that forum:
Sure, we can get into huge freedom of speech arguments, but if the recent Rick Sanchez firing is any indication, one cannot say what they want without repercussions. Why can’t this type of standard be held to those posting comments on websites? Obviously a nut voicing a blatant insult or threat on an entertainment article thread isn’t going to lose his job (unless his employer catches him doing this crap on company time) but the very least that could happen is his comment be deleted. It’s common sense. It’s decent behavior. It’s socially correct.
I know, it’s a competitive environment out there and fan crazy makes for good site traffic. As a webmaster out there in the trenches everyday trying to promote my website, I know the tricks. Advertisers don’t care about whether or not a site moderates comments. It’s all about number of hits. Some fans too have actually told me they like the vicious comments and fights that break out in various forums because it’s not boring. I don’t understand that, for I’ve always written for moderated sites where personal attacks are not allowed and traffic has been fine. This site follows a strict policy of personal respect when posting and it’s done wonders for our fan experience. We’re happy!
Zap2It has been good to the show. It promotes "Supernatural," has a large enough online presence to get the word out and usually has some great exclusives to share. Overall the slant in the articles are very positive. At what point though does a site draw a line when it comes to bad commenters? Wouldn’t alienating a show and a majority of its fans after a while be bad for business? At minimum, how about respect for the actors, writers, and producers of the shows promoted?
Now I know some people will jump all over me for this commentary, calling me a hypocrite because I have spoken out against negative posts in the past in various places. I’m not talking about differing opinions and heated discussions over the show content and direction. I’m talking about blatant attacks and threats against good, hard working people that practically work themselves to exhaustion so we can be entertained. It’s uncalled for. That also extends to fellow fans as well. Lord knows I've endured many personal insults and threats ever since I started writing about Supernatural over two years ago as have many other bloggers. It’s not acceptable to act that way face to face, online should be no different.
I’ve met Jensen Ackles twice. Both times he was the most gracious, most professional, most enthusiastic person about his job and those he works with. He’s never done anything to indicate otherwise. He loves meeting and talking with fans too. Ditto for Jared Padalecki, who has endured his fair share of crap from fans in recent years, especially with his personal life. Both Jensen and Jared’s wives have gotten personal threats for nothing more than being associated with these men. Jim Beaver and Misha Collins get online backlash too and I won’t even go into the excessive personal attacks Eric Kripke has gotten just because he shared a creative vision. It’s not like he insulted anyone’s mother!
What’s most sad is eventually it’s the negative comments that are remembered, not the positive ones. Just a few bad fans (or really troublemakers that are likely not fans) tarnish the reputation of an entire fandom or even worse, TV show. I don’t know how many times I’ve gone to TV and entertainment sites and read from bloggers and other media folks how “insane” Supernatural fans are. They aren’t talking about those that love and vehemently defend the show. They’re talking about the ones that sling insults and attack.
Thank you Jim Beaver. Your comments are most appreciated and highly representative of the classy bunch that have long been a part of "Supernatural." Such words need to be said at times, no matter how much they get lost or forgotten in the long run. It’s the good fans that will remember your words, those of us that long for that generosity of spirit and are also tired of all the other crap. You serve this fandom well. Hopefully others will follow and the uncalled for behavior will finally stop. You and all the others associated with “Supernatural” deserve better for all your hard work. So do the fans that support you.
For all the latest Supernatural info and article links, follow The Winchester Family Business on Twitter at @WinFamBusiness
I’ve learned to dismiss bad comments. I can’t even read comment threads anymore on some sites and gloss over anything that is excessive in negativity (aka, hurling crude insults). Today however something made me sick. In an article on Zap2It that positively promoted Jensen Ackles’ directorial debut, fans started shooting off their mouths again about both Jensen Ackles and Jim Beaver. One commenter insulted Jensen’s professional integrity and another actually insulted his wife. Another said comments about Jim Beaver without checking their facts.
Jim Beaver, a very good friend to the online fandom and someone who chooses to maintain a presence on Twitter and Facebook despite the sometimes crazy, couldn’t take these comments either. Here is his post on that forum:
Okay, gang, let's get a few things straight.
First, I'm not a regular because I don't want to move myself and my daughter to Vancouver. I prefer to freelance and live in L.A. Supernatural and the CW offered to make me a regular and I chose not to accept the offer. Sure, if they threw a gargantuan salary increase at me, it might make it worthwhile, but even then I would hesitate.
Second: To "Enjoy TV" -- That's a repugnant thing to say about a woman you don't know. I DO know Jensen's wife, and I am appalled that you would say something so malicious, even under a pseudonym. Shame.
Third: To "Colin" -- Jensen Ackles is one of the best prepared, thoughtful, well-organized, and technically adept directors I've ever had the honor to work with. I've watched him over five years, studying the directors of our show, learning every detail, preparing meticulously for the day when he could expand his artistic horizons. I told him at the end of his directorial debut that I had never felt so secure or protected with a director. I've been doing this job for nearly 40 years and I have never had the courage to attempt directing anything like this. I applaud him, both for his willingness to do it right and for the skill and artistry and generosity with which he did it. I look forward to having him direct me again. And shame on anyone who denigrates the work he did--especially without even seeing it.
Can we please approach this show with a little more generosity of spirit? It would make my occasional visits to these forums ever so much more pleasant. And who knows, you might feel a little happier yourselves.
Jim Beaver
I’m both inspired and deeply saddened that Jim had to do this. It’s great when someone can so eloquently put into words what a majority of us think when reading slanderous comments. But an actor should never have to do this. This type of defense is not his job. Neither should a fan or a blogger or a producer. Where is the social responsibility with the websites? Why is despicable behavior allowed? First, I'm not a regular because I don't want to move myself and my daughter to Vancouver. I prefer to freelance and live in L.A. Supernatural and the CW offered to make me a regular and I chose not to accept the offer. Sure, if they threw a gargantuan salary increase at me, it might make it worthwhile, but even then I would hesitate.
Second: To "Enjoy TV" -- That's a repugnant thing to say about a woman you don't know. I DO know Jensen's wife, and I am appalled that you would say something so malicious, even under a pseudonym. Shame.
Third: To "Colin" -- Jensen Ackles is one of the best prepared, thoughtful, well-organized, and technically adept directors I've ever had the honor to work with. I've watched him over five years, studying the directors of our show, learning every detail, preparing meticulously for the day when he could expand his artistic horizons. I told him at the end of his directorial debut that I had never felt so secure or protected with a director. I've been doing this job for nearly 40 years and I have never had the courage to attempt directing anything like this. I applaud him, both for his willingness to do it right and for the skill and artistry and generosity with which he did it. I look forward to having him direct me again. And shame on anyone who denigrates the work he did--especially without even seeing it.
Can we please approach this show with a little more generosity of spirit? It would make my occasional visits to these forums ever so much more pleasant. And who knows, you might feel a little happier yourselves.
Jim Beaver
Sure, we can get into huge freedom of speech arguments, but if the recent Rick Sanchez firing is any indication, one cannot say what they want without repercussions. Why can’t this type of standard be held to those posting comments on websites? Obviously a nut voicing a blatant insult or threat on an entertainment article thread isn’t going to lose his job (unless his employer catches him doing this crap on company time) but the very least that could happen is his comment be deleted. It’s common sense. It’s decent behavior. It’s socially correct.
I know, it’s a competitive environment out there and fan crazy makes for good site traffic. As a webmaster out there in the trenches everyday trying to promote my website, I know the tricks. Advertisers don’t care about whether or not a site moderates comments. It’s all about number of hits. Some fans too have actually told me they like the vicious comments and fights that break out in various forums because it’s not boring. I don’t understand that, for I’ve always written for moderated sites where personal attacks are not allowed and traffic has been fine. This site follows a strict policy of personal respect when posting and it’s done wonders for our fan experience. We’re happy!
Zap2It has been good to the show. It promotes "Supernatural," has a large enough online presence to get the word out and usually has some great exclusives to share. Overall the slant in the articles are very positive. At what point though does a site draw a line when it comes to bad commenters? Wouldn’t alienating a show and a majority of its fans after a while be bad for business? At minimum, how about respect for the actors, writers, and producers of the shows promoted?
Now I know some people will jump all over me for this commentary, calling me a hypocrite because I have spoken out against negative posts in the past in various places. I’m not talking about differing opinions and heated discussions over the show content and direction. I’m talking about blatant attacks and threats against good, hard working people that practically work themselves to exhaustion so we can be entertained. It’s uncalled for. That also extends to fellow fans as well. Lord knows I've endured many personal insults and threats ever since I started writing about Supernatural over two years ago as have many other bloggers. It’s not acceptable to act that way face to face, online should be no different.
I’ve met Jensen Ackles twice. Both times he was the most gracious, most professional, most enthusiastic person about his job and those he works with. He’s never done anything to indicate otherwise. He loves meeting and talking with fans too. Ditto for Jared Padalecki, who has endured his fair share of crap from fans in recent years, especially with his personal life. Both Jensen and Jared’s wives have gotten personal threats for nothing more than being associated with these men. Jim Beaver and Misha Collins get online backlash too and I won’t even go into the excessive personal attacks Eric Kripke has gotten just because he shared a creative vision. It’s not like he insulted anyone’s mother!
What’s most sad is eventually it’s the negative comments that are remembered, not the positive ones. Just a few bad fans (or really troublemakers that are likely not fans) tarnish the reputation of an entire fandom or even worse, TV show. I don’t know how many times I’ve gone to TV and entertainment sites and read from bloggers and other media folks how “insane” Supernatural fans are. They aren’t talking about those that love and vehemently defend the show. They’re talking about the ones that sling insults and attack.
Thank you Jim Beaver. Your comments are most appreciated and highly representative of the classy bunch that have long been a part of "Supernatural." Such words need to be said at times, no matter how much they get lost or forgotten in the long run. It’s the good fans that will remember your words, those of us that long for that generosity of spirit and are also tired of all the other crap. You serve this fandom well. Hopefully others will follow and the uncalled for behavior will finally stop. You and all the others associated with “Supernatural” deserve better for all your hard work. So do the fans that support you.
For all the latest Supernatural info and article links, follow The Winchester Family Business on Twitter at @WinFamBusiness
| < Prev | Next > |
|---|
Comments
Yes, it is a shame that there are folks out there who are mean and vicious (fans or no - the internet seems made for bullying) and I don't ever see that changing or going away.
Which is why I'm both happy and sad Jim Beaver needed to speak up. I am sad because I don't think this bad behavior is necessary. The world is screwed up enough without people getting all crazy about folks they don't actually know.
However, I am happy because Jim cares enough to defend the show. If that had been in a room and I had been present I would have either given him a standing ovation or I would have walked up to stand with him against the attacker.
Just like you, Alice, care enough to risk backlash to bring this to our attention. To you I would also stand beside against the "foe".
And I am all for freedom of speech, but I thought that meant that I have the right to my opinion - not the right to slander and hurt and abuse with words. Where has the good judgment of the population at large gone? I know not.
All I can try to do is be an example that others might appreciate and choose to follow.
Mr. Beaver, if you read this, thanks for your words and as Alice said in her article, please remember there are fans out here who really appreciate what you do, what Jensen and Jared and all the folks involved with Supernatural do, to bring us our beloved entertainment. There are still a lot of very good apples in this basket.
I love our fandom and I think that SPN fans are amazing, but...sometimes. It is absolutely never ok to cruelly attack someone, especially when it's someone that you don't even know personally. Comments like that make me almost ashamed to be associated with Supernatural fans. It's just so disrespectful and inappropriate. I often wonder how the cast can still be so nice and generous with the fans when they have to deal with comments like that. We're so lucky to have an amazing cast and crew making a show that we love, and who loves their fans back. We shouldn't be repaying them by trash talking them and their personal lives. I just take comfort in knowing that the entire fandom isn't like that, and I think that's what the cast and crew focus on as well.
But you raise an interesting point, Alice - about internet traffic and advertisers. Unfortunately, controversy (even the baseless malicious kind) appear to have the power to sell, or worse, appeal. And, in that light, sometimes (and I'm not saying this is what happened in this case), this sort of controversy is generated by jealous competitors, or even by the site itself (pick your conspiracy theory :P)
Just kidding. I loved reading the article, but are there really that many "haters"? I tend to ignore idiots, so it might have slipped my attention when an online "fan" was being rude. Well, I never experienced it myself. So, I can't really make any comments about that. And I think people remember the good stuff, not the bad stuff. Don't be so negative about people, some are horrible, but not all of them are. xoxo
I'm sick of these so-called fans spewing their vile hate around and tainting the show and fandom for the rest of us. Its people like them that make me think twice about owning up to being a fan of the show.
I too am still surprised that the actors and crew of Supernatural still have time for fans after half the stuff that has gone on. For that the majority of fans are thankful.
I know it's not my place but I feel I have to apologise to Jim, Jensen and other cast and crew of Supernatural on behalf of the fans who enjoy the show and appreciate their work. Please don't take any notice of these vile people and on a more personal note please don't judge all fans by their comments, they don't speak for us.
I guess I just feel sad about the whole thing and I really don't understand these people.
The only thing I’m glad about is that we have people like Alice and Jim to put across so eloquently what a large amount of us are feeling. I'm just sad that it was needed at all.
I became aware of the 'Supernatural fandom' at the end of season one when the final episode ended on such a cliffhanger I turned to the internet to find out if my now favourite show was going to be returning for a second season. Much to my delight I discovered my show was going to be back, plus I had also found several sites where I could find all sorts of information including spoilers so I was a very happy fan indeed. That is until I stumbled upon fan forums where I very quickly realised I had been watching a completely different show to many of the other participants. I have to admit I absolutely love my show and could never quite understand how others under the guise of 'fans' could trash talk it so readily. I now prefer to call myself a dedicated viewer rather than a fan and while I do read some forums, I very rarely post a comment.
The anonymous freedom of the internet has helped to create a great deal of bullying and unfortunately many people have failed to realise that the right to freedom of speech brings with it great responsibility. The responsibility of simple decency! I believe if each and every one of us could take repsonsibility for our own words and actions, not only internet forums but the world in general would be a much better place. So thank you Alice for this site where respect and decency is expected and therefore in the vast majority of comments it is an actuality. Leading by example is a great start for helping others to take ownership of their own behaviour.
I am also saddened and irritated that it had to come to a situation where Mr Beaver apparently felt compelled ‘to get a few things straight’. It should not be his job to do that. However, being a decent human being and honorable man he did it with class.
After having me these actors I do think that they have learned by now to distinguish between the troublemakers and those who treat them with respect and support. Visiting a convention I was able to make them out after a few hours of watching people. The behaviour is somewhat always similar. The atmosphere created by them changes in a heartbeat. Actors, as sensitive and astute as ‘our guys’ here are, will certainly be capable of recognizing that, too.
Sometimes I wish they knew about our site here. This one is a beautiful example how it can be done.
And you are right – the people running those sites that allow venom posted should rethink their responsibilities. You are doing it with a lot of class, too, Alice. As someone who writes for this site I always feel in good hands, trusting my editor-in-chief absolutely. So do most of the fans coming here.
Kudos! Jas
This is the second instance in as many weeks that I have seen something really inappropriate come through on a more "mainstream" site. A slanderous post about one of the actors was left up on TWoP in spite of several reports and complaints.
I am mortified that Jim Beaver saw those comments at Zap2it. Good for him for responding.
Like someone else said, I hope all the great actors in the show know they are much loved by the majority of the fans and that these few are just like I said... few
I know you probably feel like you're fighting the tide, Alice, but someone has to hunt the demons
I do not like Jensen, even though I've met him and he was nothing but nice to me. It's a personal preference. Never in my LIFE would I think about making threats or insulting him or his wife or family or anything of the sort. (And he's a good actor too.)
The same goes to EVERYBODY involved in the show. To call yourself "a fan" and do something like that is repugnant.
My BFF always says, "People suck. Certain individuals are cool." This is once again proof of that.
I'm sorry Jim had to make that post, but I'm even more sorry he had to see it. He owes nobody an explanation about anything, and yet he did it, which speaks volumes as to the kind of man he is.
Sad times.
I too hope the actors or anyone associated with the show never read such trash. Because that's all it is. Garbage.
So thank you for standing up and raising the RESPECT banner. "Supernatural" is a job for so many people and their families. It is ridiculous to think that so many disrespectful people try to make their lives so hard; maybe even a little fearful for their personal safety along with their families. Nobody should EVER have to put up with that, especially in today’s crazy and mean world. I watch "Supernatural" to leave that all that behind for an hour a week and I don't want others negative outlook to interfere with that.
Thanks again. I will be passing your article along.
-A Quiet yet Appreciative Fan
Was that to harsh?
This type of stuff makes me feel ill. Personal attacks on the Js? Really? Mind boggling.
I'm also feeling some major vicarious embarrasment that Jim Beaver read those comments.
Thanks again Alice for providing a safe place to go where the show we love can be celebrated and enjoyed without fear of attack.
Very well said Alice
Well this is sure to rain post-apocalyptic plagues down upon you. 8-)
I read that article when it came out and thought, hey, cool, some promo for episode 4. Then I left. Didn't read any comments. Of course now I went and read them and am glad to see that right behind the three referenced by Mr. Beaver was Mr. Beaver's comment and then poof, the site mostly changed into people applauding Jim Beaver as well as supporting the show.
Once again the free speech banner gets waved...people are company shills for apparently deleting comments that don't toe the 'company line'. It's always amazing to me that free speech is waved by those who want to insult and lodge attacks but somehow when the positive comes out people are told to shut up. I guess free speech only goes one way.
It's also very sad that free speech somehow is meant to override decency, something our founders would be beyond disgusted to see happening. If you doubt me, read their original writings, they're quite illuminating.
I've got the same conclusion that many have and that Jim Beaver wrote so beautifully and perhaps prophetically, if people would channel their negative towards the positive, they would indeed be happier; I learned that by experience.
Thanks for writing this article, Alice, and thanks for all who post their support. I've never met either Jensen or Jared so I have no like or dislike of either one of them. I enjoy the work, I enjoy the show, I enjoy the characters. My liking either one of them is not important nor do I pretend that it is.
Bring on Friday...Cas is back!
I came here shuddering a bit wondering if the fandom had exploded into angst and separatist movements again but not because of this....sheesh, here I thought the latest controversy was going to be about how Cas answers Dean's prayers and not Sam's...sheesh.
I've only been involved in fandom since the middle of season four. So, I don't know how it's always been, but it seems to be a lot worse lately. I think people forget or don't care that the internet is a public place and anything they say can be seen by anyone else.
Sadly this is an internet wide problem. People feel safe behind their computer to say whatever they want. But, there are people on the other side of the computer, and their feelings can be hurt just a much as if they were being spoken to face to face. Anonymity is not a reason to treat people like they don't matter.
I've felt divided lately, because fandom seems to be worse than it was, but at the same time I'm still connecting with amazing people. I agree that something needs to be done.
It can be so supportive and lots of fun.
With many different insights and many views.
With some that are deep and some that amuse.
But unfortunately there will always be the odd few.
That feel they must pass on there poisonous view.
It’s so sad this behaviour is in our midst.
And that attacks like this should even exist.
I’ll never understand this type of mentality.
This viciousness and such lack of morality.
Are they invoking these insults just for kicks?
Just to cause trouble or just to be dicks.
I have to wonder just how old these people really are.
As there maturity appears questionable by far.
I think a more age appropriate site should be recommended.
Like Sesame Street or Disney, especially when unattended.
With a last note I want to thank you Alice.
For keeping this site from all this malice.
And for supporting the show and trying to preserve,
The love and respect to the actors, they so deserve.
God bless Jim Beaver for his defense, but he should never have had to do it. It is nauseating to have to read crap from malicious so called fans. That is why I now only read forums on 3 sites that seem to keep the nasties in the minority. This site, of course, Bardicvoice, and Gaelicspirit's A Storyteller's Journey.
Makes me sick to think that the wonderful folks that I love and have made me my favourite show would ever have to see such crap on any site. I stay far away from those mean spirited negative places, such as TWoP.
Karen, great poem! How do you do it?
This stuff is what has all but removed me from the supernatural fandom, the crazies are heard more often than the average fan. I don't want to be a part of that.
I guess all we can do is carry on carrying on, fight the idiocy with a calm collective voice through sites like this. And hope they get bored and move on to something else.
I don't care who you are, personal attacks, especially against people you don't even know, are not alright. Solid online meta sometimes includes criticism on aspects of the show that is well-considered and -written, even if I don't agree (which I rarely do because when it comes to Supernatural, I love just about everything about it). That I have no problem with. But the phenomenon of fan-entitlement--I'm a fan, I own you, you have to please me in all aspects of your personal and professional life--makes my teeth itch. The executives, writers, cast and crew of Supernatural are all very dedicated and professional. They work exhausting hours and put everything they have into creating something they can be proud of and we can love. Most of us do love it, and we appreciate their effort. I can only pray that a few loud-mouthed, bad-mannered, losers don't leave a permanent bad taste in their mouths about fans in general.
I'm all for freedom of speech but still there should be a line. There's debating and discussion but attacks just aren't needed. I have pictures of both boys weddings on my photo bucket account because they both look so insanely happy. The comments they've received would shock you.
This is definitely an "if you don't have anything nice to say" moment.
My suggestion to those out there and you know who you are. GROW UP!
But then there are people like Jim Beaver and you, Alice, and the commenters on this site that are rational and decent and good human beings, and I am heartened again. The internet can be such a dreadful place and yet wondrous and joyful and amazing, too. It's nice to be reminded of the good when the bad rears its ugly head.
The actors, creative staff and crew are doing a job, then they go home and have normal lives. To insult these people and their families is stupid.
Most of us will never know these people on a personal level. So for those 'idjits' who cannot separate tv from reality, I can only wish that they do not have children.
I read that article before and as usual I didn't read the comments. Quit doing that a long time ago since there is just to much nasty stuff out there.
But after reading your article I went back and checked. And I discovered one thing that this people with those nasty comments can't be fans. We all seen the comic con videos or heart or read it somewhere what Jim had to say about Jensen directing debut. So yes we are fans. But those people with the nasty comments can't be since they don't seem to know it.
I actually start to believe that those are just some freaks who like to talk trash somewhere and since SPN is know for having a big fan base they can be sure someone reads it.
It’s a shame that when people think of the Supernatural fandom, they don’t think of all the amazing things we’ve done. They don’t think of the incredible generosity of fans. They don’t think of how we’ve banded together to support the show. They think of the people who leave awful comments on articles.
I commend Jim for taking action because it’s important for people to realize that, even though they remain anonymous, their words don’t. We need to be good to each other and to this show that we all love so much.
So witch part, beside the good manners, education and respect for others, haven't these trolls understand? And then they say SPN fans are over protective! Well guess what we have reasons to be, we feel this show like ours too and we take personally offense when the show, the actors and all the others that work on it are offended and/or attacked.
When I've read the article there were no more that 2 or 3 comments at the time so I didn't read the comments you mentioned and I'm not going too it's not worth it and it ashames me (ya I know I didn't do anything but still...) that JB read those and that he felt he needed to answer it, and such a good one too! Just hope he knows that there's places, like here, where we do appreciate his and his co-workers work and we're thankful for it, basically every single day!
To the trolls I just got one thing to say, you are not fans, in fact you're anything but, so do everyone a favor and GO AWAY! And to the ones that run those sites, don't you think you should take responsibility for what's in your site? After all are you running it or they are?!
Alice, thanks once again for sticking your neck out and for ruining this amazing site where all of us feel happy to come and that we're proud to call home.
These people are not fans and frankly I don't want such horrible human beings to be associated with the show I love. I was ashamed for those people and just hope that Jim and anyone else associated with the show don't think that all fans are such spiteful morons.
It's stupid, and it's mean and for some reason people keep doing it whether they're posting about Star Trek, or The X-Files, or whatever else they're obsessed with. I think they key thing to remember is that the nasty postings probably aren't actually personal. It's been posted to get a reaction (because the person temporarily gets some attention) or it's been posted by someone who's gone to the dark side in terms of their obsession. Either way, that stuff isn't from the 'normal' fans.
Unfortunately there's not a lot that can be done about it, apart from making sure that the sites that are populated by sensible and intelligent people (like this one) keep fighting the good fight.
I add a hearty AMEN to you and all the other commenters about the negativism that exists on the internet. It is downright rude and awful behavior and as one person said, we wouldn't act that way face to face with someone, so why make those comments on the internet. The motto I always try my best to live by is "don't do something to others or say something about others that you wouldn't want to be done to you or said about you."
I experienced one of the negative people a week or so ago. One of my friends on LJ made a post about some negative nasty comments she read on another site and was venting her feelings. I posted a comment about how I dislike the negative comments, tend to stay away from them for the most part, (they are entitled to their opinion), but the mean spirited, nasty ones I don't care for and said something to the fact that we should all put them on their own little website so they can be negative together. I admit, I could have been more tactful, but sometimes the negativism can really be frustrating. Well, I received a comment back from someone else (not the owner of the post) who started railing me up and down about how she hates all the people that rail against the negative people. She proudly stated that she is one of those individuals and that she is not a fan of Supernatural but still goes to the posts and watches the show and how she is tired of always being criticized for being negative. I tried to tell her that I don't mind the negative comments as long as they are constructive in nature and not demeaning or mean-spirited, and that the comments we were all talking about disliking are the hurtful kind, but she came back just basically blasting me for making a comment about not liking the negative commenters. I couldn't win for losing. I still don't think she understood my point.
I am just sorry that there are those out there that feel the need to constantly tear things down and be mean-spirited and rude. I really don't visit any other sites because of this issue and so, I am grateful to have this site where one can feel safe to express their thoughts or comments and where we can all have a positive, uplifting experience reading the articles and comments.
Sometimes, I don't believe humans are ready for the power of full anonymity, on the internet. Many seem to handle it really badly and instead, use it as a way to commit mischief and to torment others.
And oh yeah, I actually saw some of the really vicious comments about Sera Gamble. Given that a good number of them came from females, they should've been ashamed. And women complain about sexism from males? A lot of it comes from their own gender as well.
I think this and a few other Supernatural fansites are rather respectful, peaceful and harmonious. Maybe it's due to the age of the posters or to the awesome administration job that the staff do. But? It's just so polite and rarely do any of the discussions get out of hand. And that the staff set a great example by not getting too hysterical and not being dumb.
I've long given up on the CW forums and am actually sad they've become a breeding ground for trolls, morons and the like. :( It's a shame they're such a turn-off for newcomers 'cos forums can also convert viewers from other shows on that network/channel. I wonder if Alice or someone is willing to feedback this to CW? If they want to revamp the network, they MUST also revamp the forums and how they're administrated.
Seriously, some of the Supernatural fans really make me doubt their sanity when they start rambling on and on about how much they hate a certain character, how much they'd love for said character to be written off, how and why said character is terrible/selfish/etc. And then I wonder: why can't they just quit the show if they truly detest certain elements of the writing? 'Cos seriously? It's fiction and not reality, there's no need to write a damn bloody essay everytime they feel the need to indulge in their thoughts. Even worse are when people think being long-term fans entitles them to get into bitch-fights with anyone and everyone who disagrees with them.
Sometimes, I doubt the maturity of many people on the net. Lots are supposed to be in their 30s and even older but they behave like a kindergarten kid.
Also, your article was so well written! And I applaud Mr. Jim Beaver for making that statement.
Signed "A REAL Supernatural Fan"
RSS feed for comments to this post