This study examines the history of fan culture, highlight online fandom issues: (a) fanfictions impact on diversity, (b) representation in publishing, and (c) the influence of AI on fan practices. Literature in fan studies has yet to engage in race, regulation, and AI discussions within fandom. The popular view that fandom is inherently progressive dismisses the very human behaviours individuals carry into these spaces. The lack of diversity in fiction encourages fanfiction authors to close those gaps with diverse depictions, but fans who enforce the canonical text and its ideologies often dictate what is and isn’t allowed. Through an online survey (n = 59) and online interviews (n = 2) this research showcases first-hand fandom experiences in online spaces and explains that fandom, however inclusive, deals with issues often discriminating BIPOC and LGBTQ+ communities. Research suggests acknowledging the lack of representation in fandom depends on authors and dominant fan studies scholars recognizing such issues, which can further promote diversity in publishing. Furthermore, while AI is innovative, it carries both positive and negative consequences on fan content. If authors “do not see colour”, how can they understand the issues or concerns of their audiences?
