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Stans

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Published on September 5, 2025

What are Stans?

Stans are intensely devoted and enthusiastic fans of a particular celebrity, musician, band, or other public figure. Their devotion often goes beyond casual fandom, encompassing fervent support, active online engagement (e.g., defending their idol against criticism, spreading positive content), and sometimes even obsessive behavior. The term originated from Eminem’s song “Stan,” which depicts an extremely dedicated yet unstable fan. While many fans are supportive, “stanning” can sometimes involve toxic behavior like cyberbullying or harassment.

Q&A

What’s the difference between a fan and a stan?

A fan enjoys and supports a celebrity’s work, while a stan exhibits an intense, sometimes obsessive level of dedication and often engages in active online advocacy and defense of their idol. The line can be blurry, but the key distinction lies in the degree of intensity and engagement.

Is stanning always positive?

No, stanning can have a negative side. While passionate support is generally positive, obsessive behavior, online harassment, and the spread of misinformation in defense of their idols are common negative aspects. Toxic stan culture can harm both the public figure and the broader online community.

What are some examples of stan culture?

Examples of stan culture include creating fan accounts, engaging in intense online discussions about the celebrity, participating in fundraising efforts for the celebrity’s causes, and organizing large-scale fan events. However, it also includes negative behaviors such as online bullying, hate campaigns against those who criticize the celebrity and the spread of false information.

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