Abstract

This paper explores the fandom culture of the tv series “The 100,” a post-apocalyptic science fiction drama. An ethnographic study of this fandom provides insights on the importance of fandoms on identity, culture, and active media consumption. The study closely follows the final season of The 100 building up to the series finale and the long-awaited return of Lexa, a beloved LGBTQ character who fell victim to the “bury your gays” trope in 2016. Through the theoretical frameworks of pop culture, participatory culture, self-categorization, and social identity, this paper demonstrates how fandoms can create spaces of belonging and empowerment through social media platforms. Online communities become spaces where fans can express themselves freely, share a meaningful identity within the fandom, and—in cases such as “The 100”—have a direct impact on the outcome of the show. Although the series has ended, the impact of the fandom remains a powerful reminder of the importance of representation in the media.

Presenters

Jessilyn Gale
Professor, Communication Studies/English, Cosumnes River College, California, United States

Details

Presentation Type

Paper Presentation in a Themed Session

Theme

Media Cultures

KEYWORDS

Popular Culture, LGBTQ, Representation, Identities, Audience, Media, Social Media

Digital Media

Videos