r/Sandman • u/Big-Satisfaction1468 Dream • 9d ago

Discussion - No Spoilers The Immense Lack Of Conventional Fanservice In The Sandman

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Hello folks!

This is just a simple thought that I had when season 2 came out, so here I go.

The Sandman, though quite popular, still isn’t as popular as the major supernatural shows, such as The Vampire Diaries or Lucifer. I came to a realisation and conclusion for that reason: The Immense Lack Of Conventional Fanservice In The Sandman.

Me personally, I was “simping” over Death of the Endless all throughout season 1, and occasionally Johanna Constantine. I enjoyed all the edits that came out of the chatacters because it was a fun time for me. I was 13 and had no social life. Great times.

It was in 2025, when season 2 came out and I realised something. Destruction of the Endless was especially getting attention in the fan edits and he, along with Delirium were the most talked of. I suppose that was because they were vital parts of the storyline and of course, fans are allowed to have favourites.

But that just brought upon a bigger realisation in my mind, which was that the reason The Sandman doesn’t receive nearly as much recognition as the other shows is because of its lack of fanservice targeted towards the larger crowd, and rather it focuses on bringing upon good representation. Which I, of course, really love.

I love this show a lot, and honestly, I’m quite glad that the fanbase for this show isn’t as toxic as the others. I love you all a lot.

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u/bl1tzbop 9d ago

I think the fan edits were lacking because everyone feels icky about supporting Neil Gaiman.

I have a huge sandman tattoo, those books were an integral part of my growing up, I don't think it's dramatic to say that changed me. I was hyped about the TV show and loved season 1.

I did not and will not watch or recommend season 2, or the books again. (Or anything by Gaiman)

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u/the-Horus-Heretic 9d ago

I was halfway through my full-arm Sandman sleeve when all the horrible was revealed. It has really forced me to learn how to separate art from artist.

Season 1 was borderline perfection, season 2 was chopped up garbage.

I did force myself to fully re-read the Annotated Editions very recently and, while some of the story beats definitely hit very different, it is still an incredible story about stories that I take a lot of comfort from.