The Rise and Fall of Westworld: A Reflection on Fandom and Reddit’s Role

It only ended a few years ago, but Westworld already feels like a footnote in television history. This pricey mid-2010s remake of a 1970s Yul Brynner movie, which few people remembered, lumbered through four lukewarm seasons before its cancellation—often without much fanfare. Yet, when it premiered, Westworld was a significant cultural event, poised to replicate the success of Game of Thrones, but in a sci-fi setting.

The Initial Hype

The show debuted with high production values and an eye-catching cast, featuring talents like Evan Rachel Wood, Ed Harris, Thandiwe Newton, and Jeffrey Wright. It was helmed by Lisa Joy and Jonathan Nolan, who assured viewers they had a comprehensive plan for the series. This promise was particularly crucial in the post-Lost era, where audiences were wary of shows that seemed to be "making it up as they went along."

Cracks in the Foundation

However, even the best-laid plans can unravel. Early signs of trouble emerged when fans on Reddit began accurately predicting plot twists. The first season was riddled with twists that were often guessed weeks in advance by astute Redditors. This phenomenon became so pronounced that, by the second season, Joy and Nolan felt compelled to rewrite scripts to throw off the fans who had already deciphered the narrative. This not only highlighted Westworld‘s fragility but also showcased the power of Reddit and its community, capable of making even seasoned showrunners rethink their strategies.

Reddit: A Cultural Phenomenon

As Westworld faded from the spotlight, Reddit continued to thrive. Celebrating its 20th birthday this month, Reddit has carved out a significant niche in popular culture, albeit not at the level of YouTube, which has become synonymous with video content. Reddit’s impact is substantial, especially in an era marked by intense fandom and parasocial relationships.

The Evolution of Fan Communities

Before Reddit, fan forums existed, but they were often fragmented. Reddit organized these communities, allowing discussions about everything from Marvel movies to niche musical genres to flourish under one roof. This newfound accessibility transformed how fans interacted, enabling a more open exchange of ideas and enthusiasm.

The Dark Side of Reddit

However, this openness comes with its challenges. Reddit has faced scrutiny for issues like misogyny, racism, and conspiracy theories. While the platform has made strides in cleaning up its act over the past decade, the darker aspects of its culture cannot be ignored. Instances of fan enthusiasm curdling into toxicity, such as the tumultuous history of the Rick and Morty subreddit, serve as cautionary tales.

A Space for Collaboration

Despite these challenges, Reddit remains a remarkable space for collaboration and niche interests. With robust moderation, it serves as one of the last bastions of the old internet—hobbyist, collaborative, and eccentric. As noted in a defense by The Atlantic, Reddit is "simultaneously niche and expansive," allowing users to engage as deeply or superficially as they wish. Whether seeking a new TV recommendation or detailed advice on building a hurdy-gurdy, Reddit offers a platform for diverse interests.

The Lurker’s Perspective

As someone who primarily lurks on Reddit, I find it an invaluable resource for pop culture insights. It’s where I turn to unravel puzzling plot points from shows like Severance or discover hidden gems from the 70s. Communities like r/MovieSuggestions and r/indieheads have introduced me to countless films and bands, enriching my cultural experience.

The Future of Reddit

Despite concerns about its stock market flotation potentially diluting its unique character, Reddit has so far maintained its quirky charm. Whether it can continue to resist the blandification that often accompanies corporate interests remains to be seen. For now, Reddit stands as a testament to the power of community and shared passion, a platform that may well outlast pedestrian TV narratives like Westworld.

In this ever-evolving landscape of media and fandom, Reddit’s role as a facilitator of discussion and discovery remains crucial, ensuring that even as some shows fade into obscurity, the conversations around them continue to thrive.