I've always been a huge fan of fans.

This week has reminded me why I write this newsletter.

This morning I found myself watching videos of Knicks fans celebrating in the streets. I’m being fed clips of fans (and ducks!) support their teams in the World Cup. I have absolutely no stake in these outcomes.

And yet I cheer for the people who do.

A lot of what I write about here could be categorized as internet culture, fanfiction, creators, communities, memberships, media, or entertainment. But the more I write Huge Fan, the more I realize that I've never really been interested in any category itself.

I'm interested in what happens when people care deeply about something together.

Sports just happen to be one of the most visible examples. I think that's why I can spend one week reading about fanfiction communities and the next week reading about sports rivalries. It's why I love hearing someone explain a fantasy book series, a musician, a television show, a sports team, a restaurant, a hobby, or a niche internet community that changed their life. The thing itself matters, of course, but what often fascinates me more is what grows around it.

I love the way fandom gives people permission to care openly about something. I've always been a huge fan of fans.

PS: The grid above of all the reels in my Huge Fan Instagram feed is a great reminder that if you have an interest, it’s worth it to create a unique account on social media. The algorithm is strong.

Over the next few months, I have several interviews coming up that I'm really looking forward to sharing. I'm also working on a series of fan guides written by fans themselves.

‘Cause one thing I've learned while writing this newsletter is that fans are often the best guides. They love helping other people discover why they love it. If you have any ideas or want to chat, reply to this email or DM me on Instagram!