Being a Fan Part 3: Why Privacy Matters in Vertical Drama Fandoms

unsplash by Anthony Delanoix

Being a Fan – Part 3: Privacy Matters

Welcome back to FanTalk.
This is Part 3 of Being a Fan — and if you haven’t read Parts 1 and 2 yet, I strongly recommend starting there. In those, we talked about parasocial relationships, respect, and how fandom dynamics can sometimes blur important lines.

Today, we’re going one step further.
Today, we’re talking about privacy.

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Fans & Creators: A Privileged Space

One of the most beautiful things about the vertical drama space is how accessible it feels. Many actors, writers, directors, and creatives interact with fans directly — liking comments, replying to DMs, sharing behind-the-scenes moments.

That is a privilege.
Not a right.

A small reminder:
Creators do not have to reply. And often, they simply can’t.

They are busy. They receive hundreds (sometimes thousands) of notifications. And just like us, they have lives outside social media. If they reply to you — that’s wonderful. If they don’t — please don’t take it personally.

And one important thing:
A reply, a like, or a DM is not a trophy.

Bragging about interactions can unintentionally hurt others who didn’t get a response. Support is not a competition. Creators appreciate all fans — whether they respond or not.

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The Core Issue: Privacy

Being an actor or public figure does not mean giving up privacy.

Yes, many creatives choose to share parts of their lives online — and we love that. But sharing is a choice, not an obligation. There are boundaries, and they matter.

You might feel familiar with someone because you follow them, watch their work, or interact online. But remember:
They don’t know you — and that’s okay.

They are not your friends.
They are creators you admire.

That distinction is healthy.

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What Is Not Okay

This may sound extreme, but unfortunately, it happens more often than you think.

❌ Asking about their romantic relationships or sexuality
❌ Offering to buy underwear or intimate items
❌ Offering money for private photos
❌ Sending unsolicited personal or explicit pictures

Even managing fanpages, I receive messages asking for private information about actors. Let me be very clear:
I do not have that information — and even if I did, I would never share it.

Asking for it is inappropriate.

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Offline Boundaries Matter Too

Creators also get to choose what they share — and what they don’t.

That means:

• Don’t stalk

• Don’t look for private phone numbers or addresses

• Don’t try to “accidentally” run into them

• Don’t invade their personal space in public

If you see a creator in real life:

• Don’t run toward them

• Don’t scream

• Don’t take photos without consent

• If they’re with friends or family, leave them alone

Respect costs nothing.