Canon is the official backbone of any fictional universe, defining the stories, characters, and events we love. But too often, canon becomes a tool for shutting out fans who don’t know the minutia of an intellectual property(IP). Respecting canon without gatekeeping should always be the goal.
While respecting canon is essential to understanding and appreciating a story, fandoms thrive on inclusivity. I’m writing this to make one thing clear: We can respect canon without using it to exclude others. Fandom should be about connection, not competition.
But here’s the problem: Canon is often turned into a weapon for gatekeeping. Too many fans use their knowledge of canon to exclude others, claiming that you’re not a “real fan” unless you’ve consumed every piece of an intellectual property (IP). I’m writing this because I believe we need to find a balance. We can respect canon without using it to gatekeep. Fandom should be inclusive, welcoming fans at all levels of engagement.
I also want to be clear, I’m talking to fans and not liscenced creators. We should expect liscenced creators to respect every part of canon.
What Is Canon?
First, let’s start with the definition
canon
noun can·on ˈka-nən
Definition of canon
- 1a: a regulation or dogma decreed by a church council b : a provision of canon law
- 2[Middle English, from Anglo-French, from Late Latin, from Latin, model]: the most solemn and unvarying part of the Mass including the consecration of the bread and wine
- 3[Middle English, from Late Latin, from Latin, standard]a: an authoritative list of books accepted as Holy Scripture b : the authentic works of a writer c : a sanctioned or accepted group or body of related works <the canon of great literature>
- 4a: an accepted principle or rule b : a criterion or standard of judgment c : a body of principles, rules, standards, or norms
“Canon.” Merriam-Webster.com. Accessed April 13, 2016. http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/canon.
In fandom terms, canon refers to the officially recognized material within a fictional universe. This might include books, movies, TV shows, comics, or additional content approved by the creators or copyright holders. For example:
- In Star Wars, canon now includes the movies, Disney+ series like The Mandalorian, and Marvel’s Star Wars comics, while the old Expanded Universe (Star Wars Legends) is no longer canon.
- In Harry Potter, canon is the original seven books, while debates continue about whether J.K. Rowling’s Twitter comments or Fantastic Beasts movies count.
Canon provides consistency and authenticity, serving as the foundation for fans to connect. However, it’s important to note that you don’t need to know every detail of canon to be a “real” fan.
Let’s be clear, though: This is not a discussion about fanon. Fanon refers to fan-created ideas, interpretations, and additions to the story, such as headcanons or fan theories. While fanon can be fun and creative, this conversation is strictly about canon—the official material that defines a fictional world. I have no opinions about that whatsoever.
Gatekeeping in Fandoms: The Problem With Canon as a Barrier
Canon matters because it ensures storytelling continuity and authenticity. It deepens our understanding of a fictional universe and connects fans through shared knowledge. But this same love for canon often leads to heated debates—and even toxicity—when fans disagree about what counts as canon or how it should be interpreted.
For example:
- Star Wars fans might argue over whether the Clone Wars animated series is as essential to canon as the original trilogy.
- Doctor Who fans might clash over whether the newer seasons hold the same weight as the classic episodes.
These debates can be fun and engaging when handled respectfully. But when they turn into gatekeeping, they harm fandoms.
The Problem With Gatekeeping
Gatekeeping happens when fans use canon knowledge to decide who is or isn’t a “real fan.” For example:
- “Oh, you’ve only watched the new Doctor Who? You’re not a real fan unless you started with William Hartnell.”
- “You’ve only seen the Star Wars movies? You don’t understand the full story unless you’ve read the books and comics.”
This attitude creates an exclusive, elitist environment that discourages casual fans or newcomers from joining a fandom. Gatekeeping is anti-art. Instead of celebrating what we love, it turns fandom into a competition.
Why Respecting Canon Matters
While gatekeeping is harmful, respecting canon is still important. Canon provides a shared foundation for storytelling, allowing creators to build rich, immersive worlds. It also gives fans a framework to connect, debate, and exchange ideas.
Respecting canon means:
- Recognizing Storytelling Continuity: Canon ensures that characters and events remain consistent within a fictional universe.
- Deepening Fandom Connections: Canon gives fans a common language to discuss and celebrate their favorite stories.
- Appreciating Creator Intent: Canon reflects the original vision of the creators, even as it evolves.
However, respecting canon doesn’t mean using it to exclude others. Instead, it should be a starting point for connection and conversation.
I do want to point out, I’m talking about fans. If you are working for one of these intellectual properties, you must respect the entire canon.
Respecting Canon Without Gatekeeping
- Focus on Inclusivity: Welcome fans at all levels of engagement. Not everyone has the time or resources to consume every piece of canon material, and that’s okay.
- Example: A Star Wars fan who’s only seen the movies is just as valid as someone who’s read every novel in the series.
- Share, Don’t Shame: When discussing canon, share your knowledge enthusiastically rather than using it to judge others.
- Instead of saying, “You’re not a real fan if you haven’t read the books,” try, “The books add so much depth! Let me tell you why I love them.”
- Celebrate Diverse Fandom Journeys: Everyone engages with fandom differently. Some love diving into the lore, while others enjoy casual viewing. Both approaches are valid.
- Accept That Canon Evolves: Creators may revise or expand canon over time (e.g., Disney’s reclassification of Star Wars Legends). Instead of fighting these changes, embrace them as part of the storytelling process.
- Encourage Creativity: Canon is the starting point, but fans often use it as a springboard for creativity—through fanfiction, fan art, or personal interpretations. This creativity enriches fandoms and makes them vibrant.
Why Gatekeeping Hurts Fandoms
Gatekeeping harms fandoms by:
- Creating Division: Instead of celebrating shared interests, gatekeeping sets up barriers and divides fans into “real” and “fake.”
- Discouraging New Fans: Newcomers may feel unwelcome if they’re expected to know years of canon before joining a fandom.
- Devaluing Casual Fans: Not everyone engages deeply with canon, and that’s perfectly fine. Fandoms should accommodate all levels of interest.
Fandoms thrive when they are inclusive spaces where people feel free to explore stories at their own pace.
Canon as a Guide—Not a Rulebook
Canon provides structure to a fictional universe, but it’s not the only way to enjoy a story. Whether you’ve read every comic or just watched a movie, your love for a fandom is valid. Here’s how we can all do better:
- Evangelize, Don’t Exclude: Use your passion for canon to inspire others rather than shutting them out.
- Respect Different Perspectives: Everyone connects to stories differently, and that diversity makes fandoms richer.
- Be Open to Change: Canon evolves, and so should our approach to fandom.
Ultimately, fandom is about joy, creativity, and connection. Let’s respect canon without turning it into a barrier.
Final Thoughts: Tear Down the Gates
Canon is important, but it shouldn’t be a weapon for gatekeeping. Whether you’re a casual fan or a lore master, your fandom journey is valid. Let’s create spaces where everyone feels welcome to celebrate their favorite stories—no matter how much or how little canon they’ve consumed.
By embracing inclusivity and rejecting gatekeeping, we ensure that fandoms remain vibrant, creative, and welcoming spaces for all.
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