New Books in Popular Culture Sabrina Mittermeier, "Fan Phenomena: Disney" (Intellect Books, 2023)
Nov 30, 2025
Sabrina Mittermeier, a cultural historian and editor of "Fan Phenomena: Disney," dives deep into the intricate world of Disney fandom. She discusses the impact of fan engagement through cosplay and social media, and how fans influence corporate practices around inclusion. Mittermeier explores the complexities of queer representation and the significance of Disney theme parks as engagement hubs for fans. She also highlights issues of race, class, and the evolving dynamics of Disney fandom in the wake of the pandemic and streaming services like Disney+.
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Fans Are Active Not Passive
- Early Disney studies treated audiences as passive dupes of a cultural empire.
- Fan studies reveals active, critical fan engagement that complicates that narrative.
Company Image Vs. Diverse Fanbase
- Disney's conservative image contrasts with a very diverse fanbase, including many queer fans.
- This tension creates rich sites for study of industry-fan negotiation and conflict.
Inclusion As Corporate Strategy
- Inclusion became an explicit Disney business value after 2020's protests.
- Corporate inclusion often serves both PR and market expansion, not purely ethical aims.