Check out our interview with Alessandra Ferreri, the Head of Content at Wattpad.

Wattpad has long been a creative home for fan fiction writers and readers alike. From your perspective, what continues to make fan fiction such a powerful tool for storytelling and self-expression in 2025?

Fan fiction has always been a powerful way for fans to participate in fandom and tell stories, driven by community, shared interests, and incredible creativity - and this has always been at the core of Wattpad. Fan fiction acts as a safe and supportive storytelling container where writers can experiment, explore identity, and find their voice without the pressure of having to follow the stringent rules of any industry or even canon. And they get to do this while receiving real-time feedback and encouragement from fellow fans as readers.

Fan fiction can also act as a launchpad, such as Anna Todd’s “After” which started as a Wattpad Harry Styles fan fiction. We’ve seen a lot of writers start with fanfic that eventually move into original stories, or even book and screen deals. Self-expression can take many forms, but places like Wattpad make it easier for anyone to share their story, which is why fanfic is such a key community driver for us that continues to thrive. Because at the end of the day, we all crave meaningful connectivity.

You spoke on the panel “The Fandom Effect: How Fans Shape Culture” at NYCC. What were you most excited to discuss on this panel, and how do you see fan communities driving broader cultural conversations today?

I was most excited to discuss how fandom is more than just being a “fan” of a certain story - it means being an active part of a community that shapes trends and pop culture. On Wattpad, new fandoms can form around fresh voices, not just existing books or shows, which gives creators a chance to build something entirely their own.

Fandoms are a powerful force. These communities spark trends, go viral on social media, and even influence movies - driving broader culture conversations. They should be respected and understood, not just leveraged for engagement.

Many writers from marginalized backgrounds have found their voices and audiences on Wattpad. Why do you think fan fiction spaces feel safer or more empowering for underrepresented creators compared to traditional publishing paths?

Fan fiction spaces have always been a safe place for underrepresented voices to be heard because creators from marginalized backgrounds can create, share and build fandoms without the usual barriers of traditional publishing. It’s a place where your story matters, your creativity is celebrated and you can find a community that’s rooting for you.

Fan fiction has evolved from niche to mainstream, even influencing Hollywood deals. How has Wattpad adapted to this growing industry interest, and what do you think studios can learn from fan-driven storytelling?

Fan fiction has grown from fringe to mainstream culture, and it’s now influencing movies, TV, and pop culture in a big way. Studios are learning quickly that fan-driven stories with built-in audiences can't be replicated by market research alone, it demands more nuanced understanding to ensure authenticity through the development process. Wattpad trends continue to spark viral moments and shape the bigger entertainment landscape, and it’s exciting to see that energy translate across formats.

For young creators dreaming of turning their fan fiction into something bigger, what advice would you give about embracing their fandom roots while developing an authentic creative voice of their own?

I think it’s important to remember that fan fiction is for the fans, so write for that. But if you have aspirations for your writing, your fandom roots can be a huge advantage in honing your craft. Fanfic teaches storytelling fundamentals, helps creators grow an audience and build confidence. It also allows for great experimentation too because it doesn’t need to subscribe to anyone else’s expectations. The key is to stay true to your own voice and write what inspires you, not just what you think will be popular or trendy. Write for you, write for your community and see where it takes you. Wattpad can be a place to potentially take your stories into books, movies, webcomics or more if that interests you, but your fandom is your foundation, it’s your creative playground, and it can help shape your creative identity for years to come.