Lots of People Make Money on Fanfic. Just Not the Authors

Fan fiction, or fanfic, has become a popular form of writing for fans of various books, movies, TV shows, and other media. It allows fans to explore new storylines, character relationships, and worlds beyond what the original creators have provided.

While fanfic writers often pour hours of time and effort into their works, they rarely see any financial compensation for their efforts. Instead, it is the platforms that host these stories, such as Wattpad or Archive of Our Own, that profit from the traffic generated by fanfic writers and readers.

Additionally, some fanfic writers have seen their works adapted into published novels or TV shows, but it is usually the publishers or production companies that reap the financial rewards, not the original writers.

Despite this lack of monetary compensation, many fanfic writers continue to create and share their works for the love of the fandom and the community it fosters. They find fulfillment in interacting with other fans, receiving feedback on their writing, and contributing to the larger fan culture.

So while lots of people may make money off of fanfic, it’s unfortunately not the authors themselves who are reaping the financial benefits.