Fans of the popular Twilight book and movie series have an official name – they are called “Twihards”. The term “Twihard” refers to someone who is an extremely devoted and passionate fan of everything related to the vampire-themed young adult stories. So where did this nickname come from and how did it catch on among fans?
The Origin of “Twihard”
The term “Twihard” first emerged in 2008 shortly after the release of the original Twilight novel by author Stephenie Meyer. The book quickly gained popularity, especially among young readers who became enthralled by the love story between human Bella Swan and vampire Edward Cullen. As interest in the series grew, fans began interacting with each other online and searching for a name that encapsulated their shared obsession.
According to KnowYourMeme.com, the earliest known usage of “Twihard” appeared on Urban Dictionary on November 25th, 2008. An anonymous user defined a Twihard as “Someone who is literally obsessed with Stephenie Meyer’s Twilight series.” In the following months, fans embraced this new label and began using it extensively on forums, blogs, and social media to describe their super fandom. The release of the first Twilight movie later that month and the subsequent films further cemented the term’s widespread popularity and usage.
Characteristics of “Twihards”
So what distinguishes a casual Twilight fan from a diehard “Twihard”? Here are some key characteristics of these superfans:
- Reads and re-reads the Twilight books over and over again
- Re-watches the Twilight movies frequently
- Knows all the little details about the characters, plot, and film/book trivia
- Has strong opinions on Team Edward vs. Team Jacob
- Own and displays Twilight memorabilia and merchandise
- Attends Twilight conventions
- Interacts with fellow fans online
- Gets excited and emotional about new Twilight releases
Essentially, Twihards don’t just enjoy the series – they are completely enamored and invested in the Twilight universe and characters. Their love for the books and movies shapes their identity as a fan and influences their interests and activities. Many have built close connections with other Twihards who share their endless passion.
Twihards vs. Other Fandoms
Twihards have gained a reputation for being one of the most enthusiastic and devoted fandoms. Here’s how they compare to some other major pop culture fan bases:
| Fandom | Fan Nickname | Key Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| Twilight | Twihards | Obsessed with characters, detailed knowledge of series trivia, loyal to Team Edward or Jacob |
| Harry Potter | Potterheads | Passionate about wizarding world, magical themes, Sorted into Hogwarts Houses |
| Star Wars | SW Fans | Love the galactic universe, lightsabers, Star Wars cosplay/merch |
| Supernatural | SPN Family | Invested in Sam and Dean storyline, loyal fanbase |
While all these fandoms exhibit devoted enthusiasm, Twihards are particularly known for their overwhelming knowledge of the series details, intense attachment to characters, and tribal Team Edward/Jacob factions. They set the standard for what it means to stan something hard.
Twihard Culture and Influence
Beyond just being super fans, Twihards have developed a thriving culture and community over the years. This includes:
- Fan Sites: There are hundreds of Twilight fan sites where Twihards gather to discuss news, share fanfiction, debate ships, and express their Twilight love. Some of the most popular are TwilightSource, HisGoldenEyes, and TwilightMOMS.
- Conventions: Official Twilight conventions attract thousands of Twihards. These events allow fans to meet cast members, buy merch, take photos, and immerse themselves in the fandom.
- Trends: Twihards have propelled many Twilight-related topics to trend on Twitter and social media over the years.
- Arts & Crafts: The fandom has inspired tons of handmade fan art, jewelry, apparel, and other creative works.
- Roleplay Communities: Sites like TwilightRPG allow fans to create vampire and werewolf characters for text-based roleplaying.
Twihards have also made a significant economic impact through their dedicated consumption of official movies, books, soundtracks, and licensed products. Author Stephenie Meyer and the franchise have earned billions thanks in large part to these loyal superfans.
Twihards Today
It’s been over 15 years since the first Twilight novel was published, but the Twihard fandom remains active and passionate today. While the intensity has diminished somewhat over time, thousands of loyal fans still re-watch the movies, re-read the books, and engage with new releases.
In 2020, the new novel Midnight Sun (Edward’s perspective of Twilight) reignited interest and conversations within the fandom. Twihards also anticipate the release of more books in the series that have yet to be adapted into films. These future releases will likely inspire old and new fans alike to embrace their inner Twihard once again.
Conclusion
Twihards are the shining example of devoted superfans. Their endless enthusiasm and detailed knowledge of the series has kept the Twilight phenomenon alive for over a decade. Even as trends come and go, the passion of Twihards burns eternal – cementing their reputation as one of the most dedicated fandoms in pop culture history.