Thanks to the internet, online fan culture has been undergoing fascinating transformations in unexpected directions. Recently, there’s been a growing concern about toxic fandom, as hostile remarks have tarnished the enjoyment of series like Star Wars, The Lord of the Rings, and the Marvel Cinematic Universe. A new report from Variety explores this trend, explaining how certain studios are now enlisting “a specialized group of superfans” to evaluate potential marketing materials for upcoming franchise projects. This strategy aims to gauge a title’s possible reception among the broader fanbase. Although specific studios or projects aren’t mentioned in the article, it hints at innovative ways the industry is addressing this issue. Additionally, some actors are reportedly being trained in “social media boot camps” before their projects launch.