The Pain of Being A Fan of Cassandra Cain

In one of my recent posts on a message board that I frequently visit (the BtO thread on the Spider-Man Crawl Space message board) I mentioned that I had a lengthy rant in the works. Well, I decided to split that lengthy rant and I'm now trying to edit it into a series of mini articles. I just finished "Part 1", which I'd like to call:

The Pain of Being A Fan of Cassandra Cain

[*I'm not very good at naming things. Let me know if you think of a better one!]
This has been a long time coming. In recent years, it seems like there are certain professionals working in the comic book industry who think that by instituting massive and sometimes controversial changes to a character, fans would happily dive into the idea and empty their wallets; that after years of great stories and deep character developments, bringing about new dramatic changes will equal to increased revenue. One of the characters that changed dramatically was Cassandra Cain.

Cassandra Cain News Update

Here's something from Gail Simone's tumblr account regarding Cassandra Cain:

mmm. I’m going to say something that will not be popular, but it’s true. A lot of the comments about these kinds of topics are addressed so insultingly and in such an accusatory fashion, that I imagine it actually pushes editors away from certain characters. If Character Z’s most loyal fans are represented by people who only scream and insult, I think that probably ensures that no one wants to work on Character Z, really. I know that sounds a bit harsh, but I imagine it’s true, and I’ve seen that before. 

So, I would say, make your case, write letters, make tweets, whatever, but try to be polite. You don’t have to kiss anyone’s ass…but don’t leave the editor with the feeling that you’re just going to be screaming no matter what they do. 

Also, yes, it is still reality. Putting your real name on your message, where possible, ups its credibility rating immeasurably. People who deny this, are, I’m sorry, kind of kidding themselves. 

That’s the general thing. More specifically, I think, particularly in a case like Cass, I think it’s perfectly fair game to explain WHY this character means so much to you. Editors are people, just like us, and most of them are fans. Let them know WHY this character connected with you. And let them know that you will support the character, and urge others to do so, as well. That stuff carries weight. 

I wish I could say more about Cass…I know she’s scheduled for a couple things, and I personally am waiting to hear back about a VERY cool thing with her, but even if I COULD say what it was, it’s not yet a sure thing. 

But I love her, I’m hearing your voice, and a lot of other people at DC, are, as well. Keep it up, and it will happen!