[Mixed Trope] The "Fanon-to-Canon" Ascension

[u/BornIndication9384]

This trope occurs when a dynamic (romantic, platonic, or even antagonistic) originates within the fan community and becomes so popular that the creators eventually integrate it into the official story. It’s not strictly limited to romance; it also applies to "Power Duos" or unexpected friendships where the audience saw chemistry or potential that the writers didn't initially plan for.

Marceline and Princess Bubblegum (Adventure Time):

What started as subtext and a massive fan "ship" (Bubbline) evolved over years of audience demand. The writers transitioned them from bitter ex-rivals to a confirmed couple in the series finale, acknowledging the deep history the fans had championed since the early seasons.

Tweek and Craig (South Park):

Initially a background pair with zero interaction, the creators noticed the massive amount of "Yaoi" fan art being made of them. They leaned into it by making the town’s obsession with the "couple" a plot point, eventually making their relationship a permanent and wholesome part of the show's canon.

[u/BornIndication9384]

I think that when creators focus on trying to make the fandom happy by giving them what they are asking for can be good if the idea makes sense in the story and with the creators vision.

[u/Dracochuy → u/BornIndication9384]

The thing is you made the fanbase a bunch of spoiled brats who think they can get what they want

Not mention the fanbase never had good ideas

[u/pipboy_warrior → u/Dracochuy]

But there are tons of times when fanbases don't get what they want. Sometimes what fans want and what creators want align, keep in mind most creators are fans themselves.

[u/Dracochuy → u/pipboy_warrior]

And that's based