fandombandblog:

#ChangeTheChannel

While I am a fan of many bands, there is another fandom I am more actively involved in. A fandom that felt as inconsistent as any bands’ fanbase is but for a cause built on community involvement. I have been a fan of Channel Awesome since it was still called ThatGuyWithTheGlasses. The site introduced me to a broad range of interesting reviewers. Doug Walker (Nostalgia Critic) helped me both relive nostalgia and take a look at 80s/90s American nostalgia. Todd In The Shadows taught me a lot about music which has helped me understand why I like or dislike songs. Tony Goldmark (Some Jerk With a Camera) amazed me with the end of his Escape From Tomorrow review. Allison Pregler (Obscurus Lupa) introduces me to The Evil Dead. Lindsay Ellis (former Nostalgia Chick) completely reformed my approach to and understanding of film analysis. These people changed my approach to film, TV, music and more.

It was therefore a shame when Allison and Phelan left. At the time, I didn’t get too invested in why they left because I often overlook drama. Then Lindsay left and my understanding was that she didn’t want to be a female counterpart to somebody else anymore. In the last month, the truth about what is happening/has happened at Channel Awesome is being revealed and it is no longer right to blindly defend the site. Their history of mistreatment and double standards can’t be overlooked anymore but those involved are refusing to discuss it via blocking people and removing posts on the Official Channel Awesome Facebook Group. The information released so far regarding CEO Mike Michaud cannot be overlooked out of ignorance anymore.

With today’s news of Linkara and Suede leaving the site after revealing more of the site’s history, it is the slow end to the site that gave us so much but at the cost of those it lead us too. Todd in the Shadows is gone from the site as of this week, Kaylyn Saucedo (Marzgurl) left some time ago and has played a major role in bringing a voice to this movement alongside Allison, Lindsay, Jacob Chapman, Holly Christine and more. It appears to be the beginning of the end of the site and one can only hope that those who are unable to leave find success when the site does fall. To the countless reviewers fighting to be listened to right now, the site promised a community. If it has failed to provide that, the fans will build it instead. Those who stand by you are not going away.