TVOT SF 2026: Fandom: What Turns an Audience into a Community?

From entertainment franchises and television personalities to independent creators and news brands, fandom takes many forms. But what turns casual consumption into a deeper connection—and how does that connection translate into lasting business value?

This panel will explore fandom across entertainment, creator communities and news. The discussion will examine what these audiences have in common and where their motivations differ—from emotional attachment and shared identity to trust, habit and connections with individual personalities. Panelists will explore how audience insights help distinguish habitual viewing from active fandom, what encourages fans to participate and pay, and how those relationships extend beyond the screen.

Together, they’ll consider what each sector can learn from the others about building communities, sustaining loyalty and growing revenue while preserving the connection that brought fans together in the first place. Panelists include:

• Holly Leff-Pressman, Chief Client Officer, Screen Engine/ASI (Moderator)
• Pam Pearce, SVP of Consumer Insights and Strategic Research, Skydance
• Peter Scanlon, CMO, Fandom
• Rob Balasabas, Head of Creator Partnerships and Community, Uscreen