‘Even if you don’t watch it with me, I will tell you about it’: Understanding second-hand fanship with television’s influence on romantic partner

How does one partner’s television consumption impact their romantic partner? While romantic relationships often centre on shared values and interests, media preferences – particularly television shows – are not always mutually embraced. This study explores the concept of ‘second-hand fanship’, a phenomenon in which one partner adopts fanship behaviours based on their significant other’s enthusiasm for a fan object, such as a television show, without ever directly engaging with the content themselves. Television, as a central and enduring form of popular media, often serves as more than entertainment – it becomes a part of daily conversation, routine and identity. When one partner deeply connects with a television series, their passion can influence the relational environment, prompting the other partner to respond in ways that mimic fanship: learning character names, referencing plot points or expressing emotional investment, even in the absence of first-hand viewing. Second-hand fanship plays a pivotal role at the intersection of media studies and interpersonal communication by illustrating how television’s cultural reach extends beyond individual screens into the intimate spaces of romantic partnerships. Through a survey-based design of open-ended questions, this study examines 283 individuals in long-term romantic relationships. The findings demonstrate that aspects of fanship can be transferred interpersonally, not through media exposure but through emotional connection and communication. Yet, the study also uncovers avoidance behaviours among some partners, highlighting that media influence can foster both connection and tension within relationships. Ultimately, this research offers a new lens for understanding how television’s influence transcends individual viewers, shaping relational dynamics and fanship culture. Future work should investigate how second-hand fanship functions in other interpersonal contexts, including friendships and family systems.