There are a multitude of diverse TV shows and movies with plenty of fans. However, in almost every show or fandom, everyone always complains about the same thing: too much filler. It’s common to see fans complaining about how it adds nothing to the show and that there should be more action. While I don’t like filler, I think it’s over-hated.

Fillers are episodes that have nothing to do with the main plotline, and aren’t usually canon. But, I think that when written well, they can add a lot to a story. For example, filler is always a great excuse to explore new and interesting ideas without worrying about the main story. Seeing characters in interesting everyday situations makes the audience grow attached to them and become more invested. It might make the characters even easier to relate to. It can also explore character relationships without the weight of what is and isn’t canon. They also help add little pauses to the story so it doesn’t feel as intense, slowing it down when it needs to.

Another thing that fans don’t consider is that filler can give writers more time to flesh out different stories and plotlines, to make the show the best it can possibly be. Many writers and animators are working around strict schedules and budgets, making it harder to create TV shows. While it might not be everyone’s favorite, it helps animators and writers give their best to the story for fans.

While filler is something that can be overdone at times, I believe that a good written filler episode here and there is okay, and can make the show even better. Filler is done to help shows in multiple ways, and I think fans should give the practice a little more grace, as it is not the thing dragging the show down, instead holding it up.