Your Turn To Roll: Different ways of integrating fan participation within transmedia storytelling

Abstract

This thesis investigates the underexplored relationship between transmedia storytelling and fan participation, focusing on two contrasting case studies: the globally recognised Wizarding World franchise and the emergent Critical Role franchise. Despite a robust body of literature on transmedia storytelling, scholarly discourse has neglected the crucial role of fan-authored content and engagement in shaping transmedia narratives. Through a comparative analysis, this research examines how each franchise structures its transmedia framework and the extent to which it allows fan involvement in narrative development. The findings reveal that Critical Role exemplifies a collaborative model of transmedia storytelling, where fans are invited to co-create, visualise, and expand the in-world narratives, often shaping core aspects of the franchise. In contrast, Wizarding World constrains fan participation to immersive and passive experiences, excluding them from canonical co-authorship. Nevertheless, both franchises allow fans to engage with established lore and create derivative stories, highlighting varying levels of participatory culture. This study enhances existing theoretical frameworks by building upon the works of Booth, Jenkins, and Schiller, presenting a first step towards new models for understanding fan engagement within transmedia franchises. It calls for further research on the implications of co-authorship and the lasting impact of fan-generated content on the evolution of franchise canon.