Editing Dark Shadows (section)

=== Audience and Fandom ===
[[File:David_Selby_at_The_Dark_Shadows_Festival_(6064054182).jpg|thumb|David Selby at The Dark Shadows Festival]]
''Dark Shadows'' developed a broad and dedicated viewership, despite receiving mixed reviews during its original broadcast. Teenagers and college students made up a notable portion of the fanbase, often organizing their schedules around the show. The series also found a loyal audience among housewives, retirees, and genre fans, particularly due to its late-afternoon timeslot.<ref name="Benshoff" /> Scholars have suggested that the show's appeal stemmed from its unique combination of gothic romance and horror, which resonated with both young and traditional daytime television viewers.<ref name="Svitavsky" /> Contemporary media accounts highlighted the show's popularity with younger demographics,<ref>Barthel, Joan. "Out in Detergent Land: A Hard Day’s Fright." ''The New York Times'', 30 July 1967, p. 85.</ref> and reviewers at the time noted its distinct tone.<ref name=":0">Brow, Rick. "Dark Only Suspense in New Soap Opera." ''Los Angeles Times'', 29 June 1966, p. D19.</ref> Over the decades, the fan community has remained active, organizing conventions, producing fanzines, and sustaining online discussion forums. The annual ''Dark Shadows Festival'' continues to be a centerpiece of fan activity.