Christopher Spencer

Y&R writing out everyone except who they need to — Chelsea Lawson.

Re: the #SoapTwitter discourse from earlier: Soap fans aren’t ‘triggered’ - they’re invested. Dismissing legitimate viewer feedback as ‘unhealed trauma’ completely misses what makes this genre special. These shows have thrived for decades precisely because they create deep emotional connections with their audience. The ‘sweet old ladies’ of previous decades were just as passionate and opinionated about their shows. They wrote letters to networks, called in complaints, and discussed storylines extensively - they just didn’t have social media to amplify their voices. Today’s fans are their successors, carrying forward that same investment and care. Now, toxicity in fandom is absolutely a valid concern that should be addressed. But there’s a crucial distinction between personal attacks on actors, writers, or fellow fans versus thoughtful criticism about storytelling choices. When fans critique how stories are presented - pointing out plot holes, pacing issues, racism, blatant favoritism, or problematic themes - without attacking anyone personally, that’s legitimate discourse, not toxicity. This distinction matters especially when fans are calling out issues that others might be hesitant to address. When longtime viewers criticize poor writing, character assassination, or disrespectful treatment of legacy characters, they’re not being ‘savages’ - they’re holding shows accountable to their own standards. Constructive criticism isn’t hate - it’s caring enough to want better. We can love soaps AND expect them to be well-written and inclusive. That’s not ‘toxic behavior’ - that’s being a discerning audience that respects both the medium and ourselves as viewers. #Days #YR #BoldandBeautiful #GH #BeyondTheGates