The Disappearance Of Crunchyroll's Comment Section: What Happened?

One day anime watchers noticed that the much-used comment section on both Crunchyroll’s website and app had mysteriously disappeared. Only a small statement was released from the streaming service, leaving users with more questions than answers. Many fans are now curious about what led to this sudden change and what it means for the future of the platform. The comment section was a vital space for discussions, opinions, and fan interactions, making its absence quite significant.

In recent times, Crunchyroll has faced an increase in negative comments, particularly those that were harmful and derogatory. This change seems to stem from a growing trend of toxicity within the community, especially regarding new and diverse content. As more queer anime shows like Given and Cherry Magic gained popularity, the comment sections became battlegrounds for negativity. Users are left wondering whether this move is a temporary measure or a permanent shift in how Crunchyroll intends to manage user feedback.

As the anime community continues to evolve and expand, it raises important questions about the nature of online discussions. With the removal of comments, Crunchyroll aims to foster a more respectful environment for its users. However, many fans are left feeling that their voices have been silenced. It's a complicated balancing act between maintaining a safe space and allowing freedom of expression, and only time will tell how this decision will impact community engagement moving forward.

Why Did Crunchyroll Disable Comments?

Crunchyroll has left a notice in their Support & Customer Service section stating, “At Crunchyroll, we prioritize creating a safe and respectful community environment. To maintain this standard, we are removing all existing user-generated content, including comments, across all our platforms and experiences.” In short, negative comments were increasing, dragging down the user experience and creating an unsafe environment for users.

Negative comments, especially made by internet trolls, are not a new phenomenon within the anime community. However, some speculate that the increase in hostility is due to the rise of certain content that has been frequently released as of late. The platform's focus on ensuring user safety has taken precedence over allowing open dialogue, which has led to the current situation.

Many in the community, like TikTok user Spitefullypink, believe that the comment section was disabled due to the increase of homophobic comments on the recently released queer anime shows. More BL (boys love) and GL (girls love) titles have been introduced, thanks to the massive success of shows like Given, Cherry Magic, and Bloom into You. Some community members argue that this change has been a long time coming, as the comment section had become a place for hostility rather than constructive conversation.

Understanding the Impact of Disabling Comments

This season introduced Twilight out of Focus, another anticipated BL that had a successful release. However, the show was review bombed by users spamming the comment section with homophobic remarks. The influx of harmful comments ultimately prompted Reddit user Taotes to notice the absence of the comment section. This incident reflects a broader trend of review bombing that can significantly damage a show's reputation and success.

There is a correlation between the homophobic hate in the comments and the disappearance of the comment section. Crunchyroll's decision to remove the feature highlights their commitment to protecting marginalized users, but it also raises concerns about the future of fan engagement. While it's a positive step for user safety, many fans lament the loss of a platform where they could express their opinions freely.

While we will no longer be able to leave comments, the ability to rate a show through stars is still available on Crunchyroll. So, fans are encouraged to continue rating the shows they like, ensuring their voices are still heard in some capacity. The disabling of the comment section isn’t the only thing Crunchyroll has done recently; they have also increased their subscription price, prompting further discussions within the community.

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