521. I’m Your Biggest Fan!

The world’s great museums are full of art and artifacts that were plundered during an era when plunder was the norm. Now there’s a push to return these works to their rightful owners. Sounds simple, right? It's not. (Part 2 of an updated series originally published in 2023.) SOUR ...  Show more

When he joined the Del Fuegos, his big brother’s band, all Warren knew how to play was a record player. Things went great for a while — and then it all fell apart. So how did he wind up writing definitive books on Springsteen and Tom Petty? If you'd like to see the video version ...  Show more

Zoe Strimpel reflects on the 'commercial exploitation' of fandom. From Swiftie 'friendship bracelets' to beauty products and sportswear, she argues that you can no longer be a true superfan, or a true popstar, without the merch. 'But it is striking,' writes Zoe, 'that rather than ...  Show more

The girlies talk stan culture and come for all your faves. From the Directioners of the mid-2010s to Nicki Minaj's digital paramilitary, fandom has pushed the bounds of internet friendship, devotion, and doxxing. Digressions include a brief review of Jennette McCurdy's memoir, wh ...  Show more

When you think of fangirls, what comes to mind: large swaths of fandom (usually for a boyband) whose feelings culminate in tears and joyful screams? Perhaps you grimace or roll your eyes at the thought. In this fun, lively talk, playwright Yve Blake asks us to reevaluate our reac ...  Show more

Sierra Schultzzie, Riayn Christina, and Paloma Malfavon discuss how it’s cool to care about the things you love (whether it be concerts or sports)! As they declare their undying love for David Archuleta, we delve deeper into the differences & similarities between the arts & sport ...  Show more